Are you looking for a unique and flavorful dish that will impress your friends and family? Look no further! This Chinese Beef Tongue recipe is a hidden gem, offering a tender, succulent experience that’s easier to make than you might think. Forget complicated techniques – this recipe focuses on simple steps and bold flavors to deliver a truly delicious homemade meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef tongue, cleaned and pre-cooked (available at most Asian markets or butcher shops)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup Shaoxing rice wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Chili garlic sauce (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tongue
If your beef tongue isn't pre-cooked, you'll need to boil it until tender (approximately 2-3 hours). Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then peel off the outer skin. Slice the tongue thinly against the grain. This step is crucial for achieving the tender texture that makes this dish so appealing.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.
Step 3: Add the Beef Tongue and Peppers
Add the sliced beef tongue to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until slightly softened. This step ensures the beef tongue retains its texture while absorbing the delicious flavors.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Shaoxing rice wine (if using), and brown sugar. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef tongue and vegetables in the wok. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Then, slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles. A dash of chili garlic sauce adds a nice kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Pre-cooked Tongue: Using pre-cooked beef tongue significantly reduces the cooking time and simplifies the process, making this a truly quick dinner idea.
- Thinly Sliced Tongue: Slicing the tongue thinly is key to achieving a tender bite.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked beef tongue can become tough. Follow the cooking times closely.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Tongue: Add a few sliced chilies to the wok along with the garlic and ginger for extra heat.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Different Sauces: Try using oyster sauce or hoisin sauce in addition to or instead of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: High Fat: Moderate Carbohydrates: Moderate
This Chinese Beef Tongue recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. Enjoy!