Spiced Tongue

Cook: 180 min

Spiced beef tongue is a tender, flavorful dish infused with aromatic seasonings and spices, perfect for those who enjoy hearty, savory meals with bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 lb beef tongue
  • 3 whole black peppers
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 6 whole allspice
  • 2 ribs celery and leaves, diced

Instructions

  1. Wash the beef tongue.
  2. Cover the tongue with hot water and add the seasoning ingredients.
  3. Simmer for about 3 hours.
  4. Let cool in the liquid.
  5. Trim excess tissue from the tongue and remove the skin.
  6. Slice the tongue and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

When cooking beef tongue, it's essential to simmer it gently for the best texture. If you prefer a bit more flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or vinegar to the cooking liquid. For substitutions, if you can't find allspice, a combination of nutmeg and cloves can work in a pinch. Make sure to remove the skin after cooking, as it can be tough and chewy.

Serving Suggestions

Spiced tongue is delicious served warm or cold, and pairs beautifully with Sauerkraut Auf Bayische Art(Bavarian Style Sauerkraut). You can serve it with crusty bread, pickles, or mustard for a hearty meal. It also makes a great addition to a charcuterie board, alongside cheeses and cured meats.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover spiced tongue can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the tongue and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to prevent it from becoming tough.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spiced Tongue contains roughly 632 calories, with 17g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), calcium (82% of the Daily Value), and iron (74% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2308mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).

632 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.3g 35% DV
Total Fat 26.7g 34% DV
Carbs 130g 47% DV
Fiber 35.4g 100% DV
Sugar 4.3g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2308.3mg 100% DV
Potassium 1904.7mg 41% DV
Cholesterol 36.3mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 67.7mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 65.7mg 73% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 1061.8mg 82% DV
Iron 13.3mg 74% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the tongue is fully cooked?

The tongue is fully cooked when it is tender and a fork easily pierces through the meat. This typically takes about 3 hours of simmering. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 190°F for optimal tenderness.

Can I freeze the cooked tongue?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked and sliced tongue. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some good side dishes to serve with spiced tongue?

In addition to Sauerkraut Auf Bayische Art(Bavarian Style Sauerkraut), consider serving it with potato salad, roasted vegetables, or a light green salad. For a heartier option, Beef Stew Provencale would complement the flavors nicely.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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