Leek dish with tongue and olives

Leek dish with tongue and olives is a delicious recipe, full of flavors and textures, that combines culinary tradition with simple yet special ingredients. It is an excellent choice for a family meal, as well as for a special occasion. Cooking this recipe will not only fill your kitchen with enticing aromas but will also give you the satisfaction of preparing a dish that successfully blends delicious and healthy flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 beef tongue or 3 pork tongues
- 2 bell peppers or sweet peppers
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 300 g olives (preferably pitted)
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste (or 3-4 crushed fresh tomatoes)
- Pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Water (for boiling)

Brief history of the recipe

The leek dish with tongue and olives has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a combination that has stood the test of time. Tongue, considered a delicacy, has always been appreciated in traditional cuisine, while olives, as a symbol of the Mediterranean, bring a note of freshness and flavor. Leek, often underestimated, takes its rightful place in this recipe due to its crunchy texture and subtle taste, which perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Preparing the tongue

The first step in this recipe is to prepare the tongue. Regardless of the type of tongue chosen, the process is similar. Boil the tongue in a pot of water for about 30-40 minutes until tender. It is important to carefully peel it after it cools down to avoid losing any meat. This step is essential, as the skin can give an unpleasant taste to the dish.

Cooking the dish

1. Preparing the onion and peppers: In a large pot, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 cup of water. This mixture will help cook the onion without frying the oil. Add the chopped onion and simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the water evaporates and the onion becomes golden and soft.

2. Adding the peppers and leek: Cut the bell peppers into cubes and add them to the pot. You can also use sweet peppers, depending on your preference. Cut the leek into 1-2 cm pieces and add it after the peppers have softened. The leek will add a subtle aroma and pleasant texture.

3. Adding the tomato paste: Dilute the 6 tablespoons of tomato paste in 1 cup of warm water. Pour the mixture into the pot, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. This sauce will add a touch of acidity and bind the flavors together.

4. Adding the tongue and olives: Slice the tongue thinly and add it to the pot along with the olives. The olives add a richness of taste and flavor. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Seasoning: About 5 minutes before finishing cooking, add salt and pepper to taste. It is recommended to taste the dish and adjust the seasonings to achieve a balanced flavor.

Serving

The leek dish with tongue and olives is served warm, ideally alongside a side of mashed potatoes or fresh bread. A green salad or tomato salad can perfectly complement the meal, bringing a contrast of freshness.

Useful tips

- Variations of ingredients: You can experiment with different types of olives, such as green or black, depending on your preferences. Additionally, adding herbs like oregano or thyme can enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This dish is rich in protein due to the tongue and contains vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Olives are an excellent source of healthy fats, while leeks provide fiber and antioxidants. A serving has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the serving size.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can it be made without olives? Yes, for a lighter version, you can omit the olives, but the flavor will be different.
- Can I use turkey tongue? Sure, turkey tongue is a lighter option and can be just as tasty.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Conclusion

The leek dish with tongue and olives is a recipe that will not only delight you with its taste but will also bring you a touch of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, each bite will be a true celebration of flavors. So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure! Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your meal!