Tacos de Lenuga (Beef Tongue Tacos)
May 19, 2025 • 0 comments

- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 4-6
Directions
👍 to “ Here’s a step-by-step guide for making tacos de lengua (beef tongue tacos), a flavorful and tender Mexican classic:
🌮 Tacos de Lengua (Beef Tongue Tacos)
🛒 Ingredients:
For the tongue:
• 1 beef tongue (3–4 lbs)
• 1 medium onion, peeled and halved
• 5–6 garlic cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• Water (enough to cover the tongue)
For the tacos:
• Corn tortillas
• Chopped white onion
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Salsa of choice (roja, verde, or taquera)
• Optional: diced jalapeños or radishes for garnish
🥣 Instructions:
1. Clean the Tongue
• Rinse the beef tongue under cold water.
• If desired, soak it in cold water with a splash of vinegar for 20–30 minutes to reduce odor. Rinse again.
2. Boil
• Place the tongue in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, salt, and enough water to fully submerge it.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 3–4 hours, or until the tongue is very tender (a knife should slide in easily).
3. Peel the Skin
• Remove the tongue from the pot and let it cool slightly.
• While still warm, peel off the thick outer skin. It should come off easily.
4. Chop
• Cut off the rougher back end (optional), then dice the tongue into small, bite-sized pieces.
5. Sear (Optional but recommended)
• Heat a little oil in a skillet. Sauté the chopped tongue until lightly crispy and browned for extra flavor.
6. Warm the Tortillas
• Heat corn tortillas on a hot skillet or comal until soft and pliable.
7. Assemble
• Add lengua to each tortilla.
• Top with chopped onion, cilantro, and your favorite salsa.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.
🔥 Tips:
• Lengua freezes well after cooking—make extra!
• Serve with a side of beans or grilled nopales for a full meal. ”
*Recipe compliments of Claudia Wadsworth of Happy Life Ranch Texas Edition