Crown of language with sweet and sour spicy sauce

Tongue wreath with spicy sweet and sour sauce is a hearty appetizer that can also be enjoyed as a main course for lunch or a savory dinner. This recipe is one of our favorite dishes, bringing exquisite taste and spectacular presentation to the table. I will share with you all the details needed to get the perfect result, full of flavor and aroma.

Total cooking time: 2 hours
Boiling time: 1.5 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 beef tongue (1,2-1,5 kg, pork tongue can also be used)
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 2 onions
- 1 courgette
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 bunch parsley
- 150 ml oil
- 2-3 peppers
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 2-3 tablespoons vinegar
- 2-3 tablespoons sour cream (or yogurt)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe history

Beef tongue is a traditional ingredient in many culinary cultures, known for its delicate texture and rich flavor. The sweet and sour spicy sauce adds an interesting contrast between its aromatic taste and the texture of the meat. This dish not only delights the taste buds but also adds a sophisticated touch to the meal, perfect for special occasions or gatherings with friends.

Preparation techniques

1. Preparing the tongue: Breaking up the blood is essential for tasty meat. Rinse the tongue thoroughly under cold running water, then soak in water for 10-15 minutes. This step helps to remove impurities and blood, ensuring that the end result will be great.

2. Boiling the tongue: Put the tongue in a large pot with 3 liters of cold water and add a little salt. Wait until the water starts to boil. When it comes to the boil, skim off the scum from the surface to get a clear, clean broth. Add the peeled vegetables (carrot, parsnip, onions, courgette) whole, as they will contribute to the aroma and flavor of the sauce.

3. Simmer: Leave the tongue to simmer, covered, for about 1.5 hours. If you prefer a faster method, you can use a pressure cooker, which will reduce the cooking time to less than an hour.

4. Making the sauce: In a small bowl, combine mustard, egg yolk, salt, pepper and sugar. Mix with a whisk, adding the oil gradually to emulsify the sauce. Add the lemon juice and, if necessary, the vinegar to get the perfect balance between sweet and sour. Finally, fold in the cream or yogurt for perfect creaminess.

5. Finalizing the dish: When the tongue is ready, remove it from the boiling juices and let it cool for 4-5 minutes. Carefully remove the skin from the tongue and cut the flesh into 5-8 mm thick slices. Arrange the slices on a platter in a wreath, leaving a nest in the middle for the sauce.

6. Garnish: Use peppers and green parsley to garnish the dish, adding a touch of color and freshness.

Serving

The tongue wreath with spicy sweet and sour sauce is best served warm, but can also be enjoyed cold and is ideal as an appetizer or main course. A personal suggestion is to accompany it with a fresh vegetable salad or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.

Nutritional benefits

Beef tongue is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins and essential minerals such as iron. Eaten in moderation, this meat can be part of a balanced diet, providing valuable nutrients to the body.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pork tongue instead of beef tongue?
Yes, pork tongue is a delicious and often more affordable alternative.

2. What extra vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots, celery or even potatoes to enrich the flavor of the broth.

3. How can I preserve the tongue?
Prepared tongue can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later consumption.

4. What other recipes can I combine it with?
This dish goes well with a fresh vegetable salad, vegetable soup or even mashed potatoes for a hearty lunch.

5. What is the best cooking method for tender tongue?
Slow cooking over a low heat or using a pressure cooker is the best way to get tender and tasty tongue.

Variations

If you want to add a personal touch, you can substitute soy sauce for the mustard or add spices like cumin or paprika to the sauce for a more intense flavor. Also, for a spicier sauce, add a few drops of Tabasco sauce or chopped chili peppers.

Personal note

This recipe for tongue wreath with sweet and sour hot sauce is more than just a dish; it's a combination of memories and culinary traditions that can bring family and friends together around the table. So don't hesitate to prepare it and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy!