Tongue Pickles Recipe
A traditional and flavorful dish where beef tongue is slowly brined with brown sugar, coarse sea salt, and aromatic spices, then simmered with vegetables until tender. This preparation yields a delicately seasoned, tender meat that is perfect for sandwiches, charcuterie platters, or enjoyed simply with mustard or horseradish.
8
servings
Ingredients
- 1 calf or beef tongue
- 3 quarts water
- 9 ounces brown sugar
- 27 ounces coarse sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon juniper berries
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 bouquet garni
- 1 carrot chopped
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 celery stalk chopped
- 1 garlic bulb halved
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Large container or crock for brining
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Instructions
- Step 1 Combine the water, brown sugar, sea salt, black peppercorns, juniper berries, and cloves in a large saucepan. Stir over low heat until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Step 2 Place the beef tongue in a large container or crock. Pour the cooled brine over the tongue, ensuring it is fully submerged. Use a weight if needed. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 5 days.
- Step 3 Remove the tongue from the brine and soak briefly in warm water.
- Step 4 Place the tongue in a large pot with fresh water and add the bouquet garni, carrot, onion, celery, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the size of the tongue, until very tender.
- Step 5 Remove the tongue from the pot and let it cool slightly. Peel off the outer skin and slice thinly. Serve hot or cold as desired.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze sliced portions for up to 3 months.
For longer storage, freeze sliced portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Calories: 139kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 37118mg | Potassium: 132mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 32g | Vitamin A: 1421IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 104mg | Iron: 2mg