What are beef lungs?
Beef lungs are delicate and light offal, characterized by high levels of protein, collagen, and iron, while being low in calories. They are flexible, springy, and easily digestible, making them an excellent ingredient in traditional Polish and Oriental cuisine dishes.
✅ Low-calorie and rich in collagen – ideal for those maintaining a healthy diet
✅ Perfect for cooking, stewing, frying, and making pâtés
✅ Excellent at absorbing the aromas of spices and sauces
✅ A common ingredient in traditional dishes such as tripe, blood sausage, and offal soups
✅ An alternative to beef liver or hearts
Nutritional values of beef lungs
Beef lungs are low-fat offal, yet rich in protein, iron, and collagen.
How many calories are in beef lungs?
In 100 g of beef lungs there are:
- Calories: approx. 85 kcal
- Protein: approx. 16 g
- Fat: approx. 2 g
- Iron: approx. 3 mg
- Collagen: high content (great for joints and skin)
- Vitamin B12: approx. 5 µg
Health properties of beef lungs
Beef lungs are an excellent source of protein and collagen, supporting muscle and joint regeneration and positively influencing skin elasticity. With their high levels of iron and B vitamins, they are recommended for people with anemia and athletes. They are also easily digestible offal, offering an alternative to fattier meat parts.
Fun facts about beef lungs
🔹 In some regions of Germany and Austria, "Lüngerl," a traditional dish made from lungs resembling stew, is prepared and served with dumplings.
🔹 Chinese cuisine uses lungs in spicy broths, believed to boost immunity and improve circulation.
❓ Most common customer questions
🔸 How to prepare beef lungs for cooking?
Lungs should be thoroughly washed, remove membranes and blood vessels, then precooked for 30–40 minutes to achieve the desired consistency.
🔸 Are beef lungs healthy?
Yes! They are rich in protein, collagen, and iron, while being low in fat, making them a valuable addition to a diet.
🔸 Which spices best suit beef lungs?
They pair well with garlic, marjoram, allspice, bay leaf, and hot pepper. Wine or vinegar can also be added for a more intense flavor.
🔸 Can beef lungs be grilled?
It is not recommended – lungs have a spongy texture and need to be stewed or boiled to achieve the right consistency.
Beef Lungs Recipe
Traditional Polish Offal Soup with Beef Lungs
This is an aromatic and hearty dish inspired by traditional Polish cuisine. Tender beef lungs stewed in a rich vegetable broth, served with mushrooms and spices – a taste that will transport you to the times of noble feasts!
Preparation time: 15 min
Cooking time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty level: Medium
Ingredients:
- 500 g beef lungs
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 potatoes
- 1 liter beef broth
- 100 g dried mushrooms (e.g., boletus)
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 allspice berries
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon marjoram
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Preparation Method:
- Wash the lungs, cut into cubes, and pre-cook in salted water for 30 minutes. Drain and rinse.
- In a pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and potatoes in a bit of fat.
- Add the lungs, broth, mushrooms, and spices. Simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours until the flavors meld.
- Season with salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar to enhance the taste.
- Serve with crusty bread or dumplings.
👉 Tip: You can add a tablespoon of cream for a creamier soup!
🛒 Summary
Beef lungs are healthy, low-calorie, and rich in collagen. They are perfect for traditional and modern kitchens. Ideal for tripe, pâtés, soups, and stews, their unique texture soaks up spice aromas like a sponge. If you are looking for a healthy and original ingredient for culinary experiments, beef lungs are an excellent choice! 🫁🔥