Mexican Tacos de Lengua Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Tacos de Lengua, also known as beef tongue tacos, are a traditional Mexican dish that has gained popularity worldwide.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword Lengua, Tacos de Lengua

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 30

Servings People

Calories 130kcal

1 Beef tongue: Look for a fresh, high-quality beef tongue at your local butcher or supermarket. It's important to choose a well-trimmed tongue to ensure the best flavor and texture.
1 Onion: A medium-sized onion, finely chopped, adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
1 head Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced, will enhance the overall taste of the meat.
2 Bay leaves: These aromatic leaves provide a subtle herbal note to the slow-cooked beef tongue.
1 head Cilantro: Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, is a classic topping for Tacos de Lengua. It adds a bright and refreshing flavor.
1 Lime: A squeeze of lime juice brings a tangy element that balances the richness of the meat.
Few corn tortillas: Authentic Tacos de Lengua are served on warm corn tortillas, which provide a perfect base for the flavorful filling.

Start by thoroughly cleaning the beef tongue under cold running water. Remove any excess fat or gristle.
Place the cleaned tongue in a large pot and cover it with water. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves to the pot.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the tongue simmer for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Once the tongue is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to peel off the tough outer skin and any remaining fat.
Slice the tongue into thin strips or dice it into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are pliable and slightly toasted.
To assemble the tacos, place a generous amount of the cooked beef tongue on each tortilla. Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Serve the Tacos de Lengua immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors with every bite.
Some use Salsa verde on the tacos, I LOVE to topple the Tacos de Lengua with Classic Moroccan Tomato Salad (Incredible)!!!

Tips for Preparing and Serving Tacos de Lengua

To enhance the flavor of the beef tongue, marinate it overnight in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices before cooking.
For added heat, consider adding some diced jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce to your tacos.
Don't forget the toppings! Traditional options include diced onions, salsa, and crumbled cotija cheese.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can braise the beef tongue in a slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours on low heat.
For a healthier twist, try using lettuce wraps instead of corn tortillas as a low-carb alternative.