Lentils with peas

Beef tongue with peas: A traditional recipe full of flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Start your culinary journey with a recipe that combines tradition and good taste: beef tongue with peas. This dish is not only a delicacy but also a perfect way to bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate. Beef tongue, an often overlooked ingredient, transforms into a savory main course, perfect to be served alongside a portion of fragrant rice.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 beef tongue
- 600 g peas (you can also use frozen peas if fresh ones are not available)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 can of tomatoes (400 g)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 6 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- Hot sauce to taste (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Helpful tips for ingredients:

1. Beef tongue: Choose a fresh tongue with a pink and firm appearance. It is important to cook it properly to achieve a tender texture.
2. Peas: If using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them before adding them to the recipe.
3. Canned tomatoes: Opt for whole or diced tomatoes of high quality for a richer and more flavorful sauce.

Preparation:

1. Boiling the beef tongue: Start by placing the beef tongue in a large pot, fill it with water, and add salt to taste. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Boil the tongue for about 2 hours, or until it becomes tender. This process not only improves the texture but also helps develop the flavors.

2. Cooling and cleaning the tongue: Once the tongue is cooked, remove it from the water and let it cool enough to be handled. Remove the outer skin: it will peel off more easily if the tongue is warm but not hot.

3. Slicing the tongue: Cut the tongue into slices about 1.5 cm thick. These will absorb the flavors from the pea and tomato sauce.

4. Preparing the sauce: In a saucepan, add the 6 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and onion over medium heat for 2 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. The garlic will add a wonderful taste, while the onion will bring sweetness.

5. Adding the ingredients: Add the canned tomatoes, peas, bay leaves, and tongue slices. Pour in about half a cup of hot water to create a sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Seasoning: Finally, adjust the taste with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if you want a bit of spiciness. This step is essential as the spices will make a difference in achieving a truly delicious dish.

Preparing the rice:

1. Boiling the rice: In a separate pot, boil 250 g of rice in plenty of salted and peppered water. The rice will absorb the flavors from the water and will become a perfect accompaniment to the tongue with peas.

2. Finishing: After the rice has boiled, drain it and add 50 g of butter. Mix well to achieve creamy and flavorful rice.

Serving:

Serve the beef tongue with peas alongside the prepared rice. You can drizzle a little olive oil on top for a more intense and rich flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a red wine, and for an extra touch, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves for a colorful and fresh appearance.

Nutritional benefits:

Beef tongue is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. Peas provide a significant amount of fiber, vitamins A and C, as well as essential minerals. This dish will not only satisfy your taste buds but also contribute to a balanced diet.

Possible variations:

- You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enrich the dish.
- Replace the hot sauce with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a milder version.
- Instead of rice, you can serve the tongue with mashed potatoes or polenta for a different texture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use pork tongue instead of beef tongue?
Yes, pork tongue can be successfully used, considering it will require a similar cooking time.

2. How long can I keep the leftovers?
The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

3. What wine pairs best with this dish?
A dry red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, will perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.

In conclusion, beef tongue with peas is an excellent choice for a special meal, full of flavor and tradition. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with the ingredients, and personalize your dish as you like! Enjoy your meal!