KETO VERDICTYES
Beef tongue is excellent for keto. It’s essentially zero-carb (~0g net carbs per 100g) with a near 1:1 fat-to-protein ratio—about 16g fat and 15g protein—keeping you satisfied while supporting ketosis.
Is Beef Tongue Keto?
Organ Meats
Beef tongue is excellent for keto. It’s essentially zero-carb (~0g net carbs per 100g) with a near 1:1 fat-to-protein ratio—about 16g fat and 15g protein—keeping you satisfied while supporting ketosis.
- Net carbs (100g)0g
- Protein (100g)14.9g
- Fat (100g)16.1g
- Keto verdictKeto-friendly
NUTRITION FACTS
Per 100g (raw)
Net Carbs
0g
Total Carbs
0g
Fiber
0g
Protein
14.9g
Fat
16.1g
Calories
224
Source: USDA FoodData Central
WHY IT'S KETO-FRIENDLY
- Virtually zero net carbs: ~0g per 100g fits strict keto macros
- High fat (≈16g/100g) helps hit keto ratios and satiety
- Moderate protein (≈15g/100g) supports muscle maintenance
- Excellent fat-to-protein balance for sustained energy
- Rich in B-complex vitamins that aid energy metabolism
- Mild, tender meat that adapts to many seasonings and cuisines
HEALTH BENEFITS
- High in vitamin B12 for red blood cell formation and nerve function
- Provides zinc for immune support and tissue repair
- Good source of heme iron to support oxygen transport
- Contains niacin (B3) for cellular energy and DNA repair
- Supplies vitamin B6 for neurotransmitter synthesis
- Delivers phosphorus for bone health and ATP production
- Includes oleic acid and other fats that enhance satiety
- Provides choline for liver function and lipid metabolism
- Contains riboflavin (B2) supporting cellular energy pathways
PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS
SLOW-COOKED TONGUE
Simmer whole tongue with aromatics 3–4 hours until tender, peel the skin, slice thin, and serve hot or cold with yellow-mustard.
LENGUA TACOS
Braise, dice, and crisp in a pan; serve in low-carb tortillas or romaine-lettuce cups with cilantro, onion, and salsa verde.
TONGUE SANDWICHES
Chill, slice thin, and stack on keto-bread with mustard, pickles, and cheese for deli-style flavor.
PRESSURE-COOKED TONGUE
Cook 60–90 minutes under pressure with aromatics; peel, slice, and sear in butter for crisp edges.
TONGUE IN CREAM SAUCE
Warm sliced tongue in a mushroom-caper cream sauce; serve over cauliflower-rice.
SMOKED TONGUE
Smoke low-and-slow, peel, and slice thin—pastrami-like texture with deep flavor.