When you batter and deep fry it, It seals in the juices and cooks it quickly so it doesn't dry out which would make it tough. If he told you to cook it long and slow maybe he didn't give you to good of a cut. Depending how much he gave you, try it any way you prefer. If it doesn't come out to your liking you can always cut up what you cooked ,return it to the pot, add vegetables and make stew. Good Luck