The language with olives

Tongue with olives – a traditional recipe with a perfect taste

When it comes to dishes that combine delicate texture with intense flavors, tongue with olives stands out for its simplicity and elegance. This light and delicious dish is perfect for both summer and winter meals, and can be enjoyed either cold as an appetizer or warm with a simple side dish. The lemon, bay leaf, and olive sauce is undoubtedly the star of this dish, adding a note of freshness and flavor.

The history of the tongue with olives recipe dates back in time, being appreciated in numerous cultures. It reflects the tradition of using every part of the animal, minimizing waste, and transforming simple ingredients into delicious dishes that bring joy to the family table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 pig or beef tongue (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 bay leaf
- 25 g flour
- 1 red onion
- 70 ml olive oil
- 100 ml white wine
- 150 ml broth (preferably homemade)
- 100 g pitted olives
- Pepper, to taste
- Lemon juice, for serving

Preparation steps:

1. Washing the tongue:
Start by washing the tongue well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove impurities and to obtain clean and tasty meat.

2. Boiling the tongue:
Place the tongue in a large pot and cover it with water. Add a bay leaf and let it boil over medium heat for about 1 hour and a half. The tongue is ready when the thick skin easily comes off the meat. This process will ensure that the tongue becomes tender and juicy.

3. Preparing the sauce:
Meanwhile, peel the onion and cut it julienne. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step will add a sweet aroma to the dish.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
Once the onion is ready, deglaze it with the broth and add the flour. Stir gently to combine the flour with the broth, forming a smooth paste. This will thicken the sauce and add a pleasant texture.

5. Adding the tongue and olives:
When the tongue is boiled, remove it from the water and let it cool slightly. Peel off the thick skin and slice the tongue into pieces about 1 cm thick. Add the slices of tongue to the skillet, along with the sliced olives, wine, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well and, if necessary, add a little salt, keeping in mind that the olives can be salty.

6. Baking:
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for 30 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to blend and intensify.

7. Serving:
After the tongue with olives is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. It can be served both warm and cold, with a splash of lemon juice on top for an extra touch of freshness. Personally, I like to serve it cold as an appetizer, alongside fresh bread and a green salad.

Practical tips:
- Make sure to choose a fresh tongue, without signs of damage. Pork tongue is more tender and has a milder flavor, but beef tongue can add a more intense taste.
- If you prefer, you can also add other spices, such as wine vinegar or garlic, to vary the flavor.
- Substitute green olives with black ones for a different taste.
- You can also use a mix of vegetables (carrots, celery) instead of onion, to add extra nutrients.

Nutritional benefits:
Tongue is an excellent source of protein, vitamins B12 and B6, as well as minerals like iron and zinc. Consumed in moderation, this dish can be part of a balanced diet. Olives add healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken tongue instead of pork or beef tongue?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so make sure to check the texture.

2. How can I store tongue with olives?
It keeps well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or eaten cold.

3. What side dishes go well with tongue with olives?
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?
Of course! You can experiment with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to add a note of freshness.

Tongue with olives is a dish that brings together tradition, complex flavors, and the joy of eating. Don't hesitate to try this recipe and adapt it to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!