How To Cook Deer Tongue

Cooking Deer Tongue: A Unique and Delicious Dish

When it comes to trying out new and adventurous recipes, deer tongue might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, if you are willing to step out of your culinary comfort zone, cooking deer tongue can be an exciting and delicious experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing and cooking deer tongue, a dish that is sure to impress your taste buds and surprise your guests!

Step 1: Procuring Deer Tongue

The first step in cooking deer tongue is to procure this unique ingredient. You can usually find deer tongue at specialty butcher shops or online suppliers. Make sure to select fresh and high-quality tongues for the best results. If you are an avid hunter, you may even have the opportunity to harvest and prepare the deer tongue yourself!

Step 2: Preparing Deer Tongue

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare the deer tongue properly. Follow these steps:

1. Thoroughly rinse the deer tongue under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Peel off the outer layer of skin using a sharp knife. This step is necessary to reveal the tender meat underneath.
3. After peeling, place the tongues in a bowl of cold water mixed with lemon juice or vinegar. Let them soak for about 30 minutes to remove any excess blood or gamey flavor.
4. After soaking, rinse the tongues again and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 3: Cooking Techniques

There are various cooking techniques you can employ to prepare deer tongue. Here are two popular methods:

Grilling:

Grilling deer tongue adds a delicious smoky flavor to the meat. Follow these steps for a mouthwatering grilled deer tongue:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the tongues with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs.
3. Place the tongues directly on the grill grates and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for medium-rare.
4. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Slice the tongues thinly against the grain and serve as an appetizer or main course.

Braising:

Braising is another fantastic cooking method for deer tongue, resulting in tender and succulent meat. Follow these steps for a flavorful braised deer tongue:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Heat a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add olive oil and sear the tongues on all sides until nicely browned.
4. Remove the tongues from the pot and set them aside.
5. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
6. Return the deer tongues to the pot and add enough liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to partially cover the tongues.
7. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Braise the tongues for approximately 2-3 hours or until they are fork-tender.
9. Once done, remove the tongues from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes.
10. Slice the tongues and serve with the braising liquid and your favorite side dishes.

Step 4: Enjoying the Dish

Now that you have cooked the deer tongue to perfection, it’s time to indulge in this unique delicacy. Deer tongue can be served as an appetizer, paired with crusty bread, pickles, and mustard. It can also be incorporated into main dishes, such as tacos, sandwiches, or even salads.

Remember, deer tongue has a rich and flavorful taste, so savor each bite and appreciate the culinary adventure you have embarked on!

So, next time you’re craving something out of the ordinary, consider cooking deer tongue. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can transform this unconventional ingredient into a mouthwatering dish that will impress your friends and family. Step out of your comfort zone and give this unique recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!