Grilled beef tongue is a delicacy that offers a unique and rich flavor, perfect for those looking to try something different. This recipe transforms the often overlooked beef tongue into a tender and flavorful dish that can be a standout at any meal. The grilling process adds a smoky char that enhances the natural taste of the meat.
Beef tongue might not be a common ingredient in every household, but it can usually be found at butcher shops or well-stocked supermarkets. When selecting a beef tongue, look for one that is fresh and has a good color. The other ingredients like garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil are pantry staples that you likely already have at home.

Ingredients for Grilled Beef Tongue Recipe
Beef tongue: A whole beef tongue, which is the main ingredient, known for its tender texture when cooked properly.
Garlic: Minced garlic cloves add a robust and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef tongue.
Ground black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.
Olive oil: Helps in grilling and adds a subtle richness to the meat.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing beef tongue, make sure to clean it thoroughly to remove any impurities. After simmering the tongue for 2 hours, let it cool completely before attempting to peel off the skin. This will make the process much easier and ensure you don't lose any of the tender meat. When grilling the slices, keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking; you want them to be nicely charred but still juicy.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
beef tongue - Substitute with pork tongue: Pork tongue has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for grilling.
beef tongue - Substitute with beef brisket: Beef brisket, when cooked properly, can offer a tender and flavorful experience similar to beef tongue.
minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar garlicky flavor, though it lacks the texture of fresh minced garlic.
minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the dish well.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more nuanced flavor compared to regular table salt.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile that can add complexity.
ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a spicier kick, though it should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil also has a high smoke point and a light flavor, suitable for grilling and cooking.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store or Freeze This Dish
Allow the grilled beef tongue to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
Wrap each slice of beef tongue individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures that the slices do not stick together and makes it easier to defrost only what you need.
Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date of storage. This helps you keep track of how long the beef tongue has been stored and ensures you use it within a safe timeframe.
Store the container or bag in the coldest part of your refrigerator if you plan to consume the grilled beef tongue within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer where it can last up to 3 months.
When ready to use, thaw the beef tongue slices in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor of the meat.
Reheat the beef tongue slices by placing them on a preheated grill or in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side. This will help restore their original char and flavor.
For added flavor, you can brush the slices with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with additional garlic, salt, and pepper before reheating.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the grilled beef tongue slices on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the slices with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the beef tongue slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are heated through.
Microwave Method: Place the grilled beef tongue slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.
Sous Vide Method: Preheat your sous vide machine to 140°F (60°C). Place the beef tongue slices in a vacuum-sealed bag or a zip-lock bag using the water displacement method. Submerge the bag in the water bath and heat for about 30 minutes. This method ensures the meat remains tender and juicy.
Steaming Method: Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Place the grilled beef tongue slices in the basket, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the meat from drying out.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Pot: Used to boil the beef tongue until it becomes tender.
Tongs: Handy for removing the beef tongue from the pot safely.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface to slice the beef tongue.
Sharp knife: Essential for slicing the beef tongue into ½ inch thick slices.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Grill: Preheated to medium-high heat, it is used to char the beef tongue slices.
Grill tongs: Useful for turning the beef tongue slices on the grill.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but helpful to ensure the beef tongue is cooked to the desired temperature.
Serving platter: To present the grilled beef tongue slices attractively.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-boil in advance: Boil the beef tongue a day before and store it in the fridge. This way, you only need to grill it when ready to serve.
Use a pressure cooker: Cut down the boiling time by using a pressure cooker instead of a regular pot. It can reduce the cooking time by half.
Marinate overnight: Mix the garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil the night before and let the tongue slices marinate overnight for better flavor absorption.
Preheat the grill: Ensure the grill is preheated to save time and achieve perfect char marks quickly.

Grilled Beef Tongue Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole beef tongue
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper ground
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Clean the beef tongue thoroughly.
- 2. Place the tongue in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 hours.
- 3. Remove the tongue from the pot and let it cool. Peel off the skin.
- 4. Slice the tongue into ½ inch thick slices.
- 5. Mix garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a bowl. Rub the mixture onto the tongue slices.
- 6. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the tongue slices for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely charred.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Dish
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