Meat
raw pork tongue.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeHalalKosher
ALSO KNOWN AS
pork tongue
SERVING
CALORIES
225
PROTEIN
16.3g
CARBS
0g
FAT
17.2g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories225kcal—
Protein16.3g33%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat17.2g22%
Saturated fat6.0g30%
Cholesterol101mg34%
Water65.9g—
MINERALS
Sodium110mg5%
Potassium243mg5%
Calcium16mg1%
Iron3.4mg19%
Magnesium18mg4%
Phosphorus193mg15%
Zinc3.0mg27%
Copper0.07mg8%
Manganese0.01mg0%
Selenium10.4µg19%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A0µg0%
Vitamin C4.4mg5%
Vitamin E0.29mg2%
Thiamin (B1)0.49mg41%
Riboflavin (B2)0.49mg38%
Niacin (B3)5.3mg33%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.64mg13%
Vitamin B60.24mg14%
Folate (B9)4.0µg1%
Vitamin B122.8µg118%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 piece400g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of high-quality complete protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- ✓Rich in B-vitamins, particularly Vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells.
- ✓High concentration of minerals like zinc for immune support and iron for preventing anemia and transporting oxygen.
- ✓Contains collagen and gelatin, which can contribute to joint health and skin elasticity after slow cooking.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Always cook pork tongue thoroughly. A common method is to simmer or pressure cook it for 2-3 hours until tender.
- 2After the initial cooking, the tough outer skin must be peeled. It's easiest to peel while the tongue is still warm.
- 3Once cooked and peeled, the tongue can be sliced for tacos (lengua), sandwiches, or diced and pan-fried for a crispy texture.
- 4Braising the tongue with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices infuses it with deep flavor and ensures a tender result.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate raw pork tongue in its original packaging or a sealed container at 40°F (4°C) or below and cook within 1-2 days.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and heavy-duty foil or place in a freezer bag, and freeze at 0°F (-18°C) for up to 3 months for best quality.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is pork tongue healthy?
Pork tongue is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides 16.3g of high-quality protein per 100g. It is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which support nerve function and immunity. However, it is higher in fat and calories than lean cuts, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Is pork tongue keto-friendly?
Yes, pork tongue is very keto-friendly as it contains 0g of carbohydrates and a high fat content of 17.2g per 100g. This macronutrient profile makes it an ideal protein source for those following a ketogenic or strict low-carb lifestyle.
How do you prepare and cook raw pork tongue?
Pork tongue is best prepared by simmering it in a pot of water with aromatics like onions, garlic, and bay leaves for 2 to 3 hours until tender. After cooking, the tough outer skin must be peeled off while the meat is still warm. Once peeled, the tender meat can be sliced, grilled, or added to stews.
What does pork tongue taste like?
Pork tongue has a mild, savory flavor that is very similar to other cuts of pork, but with a much more tender and delicate texture. Unlike other organ meats like liver, it does not have a strong 'gamey' taste, making it approachable for most palates.
Do I need to peel pork tongue?
Yes, the outer layer of the tongue is a thick, rough membrane that is unpleasant to eat. It is nearly impossible to peel when raw, so you must cook the tongue first; the skin will then easily pull away from the tender meat underneath.
Is pork tongue gluten-free?
Raw pork tongue is naturally 100% gluten-free as it is a pure animal protein. If you are buying pre-packaged or marinated tongue, always check the ingredient label for additives or soy sauce that might contain gluten.
How long does raw pork tongue last in the fridge?
Raw pork tongue is highly perishable and should be stored in the coldest part of your refrigerator for no more than 1 to 2 days. If you do not plan to cook it within that timeframe, it should be frozen immediately.
Can I freeze pork tongue?
Yes, pork tongue freezes very well. To prevent freezer burn, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag or vacuum seal it; it will stay at peak quality for 4 to 6 months.
What are the specific health benefits of pork tongue?
Pork tongue is rich in Vitamin B12 for red blood cell formation and zinc for a healthy immune system. Additionally, the slow-cooking process breaks down its connective tissues into collagen and gelatin, which can benefit joint health and skin elasticity.
How do I know if raw pork tongue has gone bad?
Fresh pork tongue should have a pinkish-grey color and a clean, metallic scent. If the meat feels slimy to the touch, has developed a grey or greenish tint, or emits a sour or ammonia-like odor, it has spoiled and should be discarded.
