Have you ever tried lengua de res and wondered how to recreate that tender, flavorful dish at home?
Don’t let the idea of cooking beef tongue intimidate you—this underrated cut is a hidden gem in Mexican cuisine. It’s loved for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, beefy taste.
The best part? With the right method, you can prepare perfect lengua de res in just 30 minutes! It’s not only delicious but also packed with protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making it a smart and nutritious choice

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything step-by-step—from how to select and prep the beef tongue to cooking it quickly without losing flavor.
You’ll also discover pro tips, serving suggestions, and tasty variations to keep things exciting.
Whether you’re craving authentic tacos de lengua or want to impress guests with a unique main dish, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and beginner-friendly—even if it’s your first time cooking lengua de res.ua de res.

Key Benefits of Cooking Lengua de Res at Home

Affordable & Nutritious Protein Option

One of the reasons I love making lengua de res is how affordable and nutritious it is. Compared to cuts like steak or brisket, beef tongue is often much easier on your wallet—perfect if you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. Yet, despite its lower price, it’s packed with essential nutrients.
Each serving of lengua de res delivers a generous dose of high-quality protein, helping you stay full longer while supporting muscle health. It’s also rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12—key nutrients that boost energy and immunity. For anyone exploring more healthy recipes without breaking the bank, beef tongue is a delicious and smart choice.

Authentic Mexican Flavor in Less Time

If you’re craving authentic Mexican flavor but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, lengua de res is your answer. Traditional recipes might call for slow cooking, but with a few tricks, you can achieve that rich, tender taste in 30 minutes—without sacrificing authenticity.
The key to getting the full, savory experience is in the seasoning. Simple ingredients like garlic, onion, cumin, and bay leaves transform lengua de res into a mouthwatering dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Plus, using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot cuts down cooking time drastically, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
I’ve found that one of the best things about making lengua de res is how versatile it is. You can serve it in tacos, burritos, or alongside rice and beans—each bite is bursting with flavor. The best part? You don’t need hours of prep to bring authentic Mexican cuisine to your table.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Lengua de Res

Core Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect lengua de res, you don’t need a long list of ingredients—just a few key items that bring out the rich, authentic flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Beef Tongue (Lengua de Res): This is the star of the show! Fresh or frozen, beef tongue is available at most grocery stores or butcher shops. Choose a piece that feels firm and well-trimmed for the best texture.
garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients form the base of the dish, infusing the beef tongue with savory depth. You’ll want to finely chop or crush the garlic and onions for maximum flavor.
Cumin and Bay Leaves: These spices are key to giving lengua de res its signature Mexican flavor. Cumin adds a warm, earthy taste, while bay leaves provide a subtle herbal note.
Chili Peppers (Optional): For a touch of heat, add your favorite dried or fresh chili peppers—serrano, ancho, or guajillo are all excellent choices. You can adjust the heat to your preference.
Beef Broth or Water: To help tenderize the meat while cooking, use beef broth or water. Broth adds extra richness and flavor.

Ingredient Tips & Substitutions

While lengua de res relies on a few essential ingredients, there’s room for flexibility to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some helpful tips and substitutions for when you want to get creative:
Beef Tongue: If you can’t find beef tongue at your local store, don’t worry! You can substitute it with other cuts like beef brisket or chuck roast, though they won’t have the same texture. If you’re after a more tender and melt-in-your-mouth bite, beef tongue remains irreplaceable for its unique qualities.
Garlic & Onion: For extra depth, try using roasted garlic instead of fresh—it adds a sweeter, richer flavor to the dish. As for the onion, red or yellow onions work best, but if you’re in a pinch, shallots can be a great substitute.
Cumin & Bay Leaves: These spices give the dish its authentic Mexican flavor, but if you’re out of cumin, you can swap it with chili powder or coriander for a similar depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can replace bay leaves, offering a slightly different but still pleasant taste.
Chili Peppers: If you don’t like heat, try using bell peppers or omitting the chilies entirely. Alternatively, you can replace fresh chilies with chili powder or smoked paprika for a milder yet flavorful twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Tender Lengua de Res

Clean and Prepare the Beef Tongue

Cleaning and preparing beef tongue is an important step to ensure the best texture and flavor in your final dish. While it may seem intimidating at first, it’s actually quite simple with a few easy steps!
Rinse and Scrape: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the beef tongue under cold water to remove any impurities. Once rinsed, use a small knife or a vegetable peeler to gently scrape away any skin on the tongue. The outer layer is tough and waxy, so be patient—it’ll come off easily with a bit of pressure.
Remove the Salivary Glands: Often, beef tongue will come with salivary glands attached. While these aren’t harmful, they should be removed for better flavor and texture. You can do this by making a small incision near the base of the tongue and cutting them out.
Optional: Blanching: Some people like to blanch the tongue in boiling water for a few minutes before further cleaning. This helps loosen the skin even more and ensures the meat is extra tender once it’s cooked.
Once the beef tongue is clean, it’s ready to be seasoned and cooked to perfection! This prep process is essential for achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes lengua de res so irresistible.

Cooking Methods – Pressure Cooker vs Stovetop

When it comes to cooking lengua de res, there are two main methods to choose from: the pressure cooker and the stovetop. Both offer distinct advantages depending on how much time you have and your preferred cooking style.
Pressure Cooker: If you’re looking to save time without sacrificing flavor, a pressure cooker is your best friend. It can significantly cut down the cooking time—lengua de res can be tender and ready in about 45 minutes to an hour. The pressure cooker seals in moisture, allowing the beef tongue to cook quickly while maintaining its juiciness and rich flavor. This method is especially useful for busy weeknights or when you’re meal prepping for the week ahead.
Stovetop: If you have more time to dedicate to your dish, cooking lengua de res on the stovetop provides a slower, more traditional approach. Typically, you’ll need about 2-3 hours to cook the beef tongue until it’s fork-tender. This method allows the flavors to meld together more deeply, resulting in a rich, full-bodied taste. Plus, if you enjoy the ritual of cooking, the stovetop method allows you to check on your dish and add extra seasoning or ingredients as it simmers.

Pro Tips and Delicious Variations

Tips for Perfect Texture & Flavor

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your lengua de res requires attention to detail and a few key tips that elevate the dish. Whether you’re using a pressure cooker or stovetop, here’s how to make sure your beef tongue turns out delicious every time:
Cook Low and Slow (for Stovetop): If you’re using the stovetop method, make sure to cook the beef tongue on low heat. Slow cooking allows the tough fibers to break down, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Patience is key here, so allow at least 2-3 hours for the beef tongue to cook fully.
Use Enough Liquid: For both cooking methods, ensure there’s enough liquid to keep the meat moist. Whether it’s beef broth, water, or a combination of both, the liquid helps keep the tongue tender while it cooks. The more liquid, the better the chances of achieving that perfectly juicy texture.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to use bold flavors like garlic, cumin, bay leaves, and chili peppers. These ingredients infuse the beef tongue with delicious, deep flavors. Adding salt early in the cooking process can also help the tongue absorb the seasoning, but be sure to taste and adjust as it cooks.
Rest Before Slicing: After cooking, let the beef tongue rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making each bite more flavorful and tender.

Popular Variations – From Tacos to Stews

Lengua de res is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes beyond the traditional preparation. Here are a few popular variations to inspire your next cooking adventure:
Lengua Tacos: One of the most famous ways to enjoy lengua de res is by turning it into tacos. After cooking the beef tongue until tender, slice it into small pieces and load it into warm corn tortillas. Top with diced onions, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite salsa. These lengua tacos are a street food favorite in Mexico and have become a beloved choice for taco lovers everywhere!
Lengua Stew (Guiso de Lengua): For a hearty, comforting meal, try making a lengua de res stew. This variation involves simmering the beef tongue with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes, along with rich broth and spices. It’s a filling and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with rice or crusty bread.
Lengua en Salsa Verde: Another popular variation is lengua en salsa verde. After the beef tongue is tender, it’s simmered in a tangy green salsa made from tomatillos, green chilies, and cilantro. The result is a zesty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for serving with tortillas or rice.
Lengua Burritos: If you’re craving a larger, more substantial meal, turn your lengua de res into a burrito! Fill a large flour tortilla with sliced tongue, beans, rice, avocado, and your favorite toppings. It’s a satisfying meal that combines the rich flavors of beef tongue with all the fixings.

Serving Suggestions for Lengua de Res Lovers

Perfect Side Dishes to Pair With Lengua de Res

The right side dishes can elevate your lengua de res and create a balanced meal. Here are a few perfect pairings:
Mexican Rice: This classic side is a must with lengua de res. The fluffy, slightly tangy rice complements the rich flavors of the beef tongue, making for a satisfying combo.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, refried beans balance the savory texture of the beef tongue, adding flavor and substance to the meal.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky flavor of grilled corn is a sweet contrast to the richness of lengua de res. Top with chili powder, lime, and cotija cheese for extra flavor.
Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy, refreshing cabbage slaw adds texture and a burst of freshness, which contrasts perfectly with the tender beef tongue.
Salsa and Guacamole: Fresh salsa and creamy guacamole bring a cool and tangy contrast, enhancing the rich flavors of lengua de res.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Lengua de Res

Leftover lengua de res can be repurposed into a variety of delicious dishes, ensuring you make the most of your meal. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy your leftovers:
Lengua Tacos or Burritos: The most popular way to reuse leftover lengua de res is by turning it into tacos or burritos. Simply reheat the beef tongue and chop it into small pieces. Then, load it into a tortilla with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, and cilantro.
Lengua Quesadillas: For a quick and cheesy option, try making lengua de res quesadillas. Fill a tortilla with shredded cheese and leftover beef tongue, then grill it until crispy. Serve with sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
Lengua Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chunks of lengua de res, cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings. Bake until melted, and enjoy a delicious, savory snack or appetizer.
Lengua Soup: Leftover lengua de res can be turned into a hearty soup. Add the beef tongue to a pot of broth, vegetables, and spices for a flavorful, filling dish.

Lengua de Res – Tender Mexican Beef Tongue

This Lengua de Res recipe delivers authentic Mexican flavor in just 30 minutes using a pressure cooker! It’s a classic dish made with tender beef tongue, simmered in aromatics for melt-in-your-mouth texture and savory depth. Perfect for tacos, stews, or paired with rice, this high-protein meal is both nutritious and satisfying. Great for meal prep and leftovers! If you’ve never cooked beef tongue before, don’t worry—this step-by-step guide will walk you through it with ease. For added versatility, see our tips for stovetop cooking and leftover ideas!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Dishes

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs beef tongue / 900g Ask your butcher to clean it for you or trim it at home for extra freshness.
• 1 medium onion, halved
• 5 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp whole peppercorns
• 1 tbsp salt
• 4 cups water / 960ml Use enough to cover the meat in the pressure cooker.

Optional

• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder for added flavor

Instructions

 

• Clean the Beef Tongue

  Rinse under cold water and trim any tough outer skin or fat if not pre-cleaned.

  Optional: Soak in lightly salted water for 15 minutes to reduce strong taste.
• Pressure Cook It

  Place tongue, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, salt, and water in the pressure cooker.

  Lock lid and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow natural release for 10 minutes.
• Peel & Slice

  Once cool enough to handle, peel the thick outer skin off the tongue.

  Slice or dice into desired pieces for serving or recipes like tacos.
• Flavor Boost (Optional)

  Sauté slices in a pan with garlic and onion, or simmer in a tomato-chipotle sauce for added depth.

Notes

Recipe Notes

• Stovetop Option: Simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours until fork-tender.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Serving Ideas: Serve in warm tortillas, over Mexican rice, or in a beef stew.
• Substitutions: Swap bay leaves for oregano or add beef bouillon for richer flavor.