Welcome to my blog post on how to cook pickled tongue the South African way! This savory and tangy delicacy is a staple in many households and can be enjoyed with a variety of sides.
What is Pickled Tongue?
Pickled tongue refers to beef tongue that has been brined and pickled in a vinegar and spice solution. In South Africa, this dish is often served as part of a cold meat platter or as a main course, accompanied by potatoes, vegetables, and a tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 beef tongue
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon of whole peppercorns
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of salt
Instructions:
- Place the beef tongue in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Drain the water and refill the pot with enough water to cover the tongue again. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 hours or until the tongue is tender.
- Remove the tongue from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin from the tongue.
- Combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a separate pot and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Place the tongue in a glass jar or container and pour the pickling liquid over it. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Pickled tongue is typically served cold, sliced thinly and accompanied by sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and a tangy sauce. Some popular sauces in South Africa include chutney, mustard, and horseradish.
Tips:
- If you don't have whole peppercorns, you can use ground pepper instead.
- You can also add other spices like cloves or allspice to the pickling liquid for a more flavorful tongue.
- Make sure to store the pickled tongue in the fridge and consume within a few days.
Now that you know how to cook pickled tongue the South African way, give it a try and enjoy this delicious and unique dish!