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Get Weird with Kidney and Tongue Recipes

In many cultures around the world, organ meats like kidneys and tongues have been prized for their rich flavors and textures. However, they're often overlooked in modern Western cuisine, relegated to the realm of "exotic" or "freak food." But why should these humble ingredients be confined to the fringes? It's time to get weird with kidney and tongue recipes!

Offal Obsessions: A World of Flavors​

From Korean-style fried kidneys to Argentinean grilled tongues, this article will take you on a culinary journey through the uncharted territories of offal cuisine. Get ready to challenge your palate and broaden your gastronomic horizons.

1. Korean-Style Fried Kidneys (Gyeran-mae)​

Ingredients:

  • 4 beef kidneys
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

Cut the kidneys into bite-sized pieces and season with salt. Dredge in flour, then cornstarch mixture, and finally coat with a beaten egg.
Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of gochugaru and a side of spicy kimchi.

2. Tongue Tacos (Lengua)​

Ingredients:

  • 1 beef tongue
  • 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Warm tortillas for serving

Instructions:

Braise the tongue in a flavorful broth with onion, garlic, and spices until tender.
Slice into thin strips and fry in hot lard or shortening until crispy.
Serve in tacos with sliced avocado, sour cream, and a sprinkle of queso fresco.

3. Cajun-Style Pan-Seared Kidneys​

Ingredients:

  • 4 beef kidneys
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Season the kidneys with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
Sear in hot oil until browned on both sides.
Serve immediately with a side of creamy coleslaw and crusty French bread.

4. Thai-Style Grilled Tongue Salad (Larb Moo)​

Ingredients:

  • 1 beef tongue
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped mint
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar
  • 1 chili pepper, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Grill the tongue until slightly charred.
Slice into thin strips and mix with herbs, spices, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Serve as a refreshing salad or use as a topping for steamed jasmine rice.

Conclusion​

These offbeat recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and push you out of your culinary comfort zone. So go ahead, get weird with kidney and tongue dishes, and experience the rich flavors and textures that have captivated foodies around the world!