oxtail soup ingredients

Oxtail soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is popular in many cultures around the world—from Jamaica to South Africa, Italy to the United States. It is made from oxtail, a cut of meat taken from the tail of a cow or ox, and is typically cooked over a long period of time with a variety of seasonal vegetables and herbs. Oxtail soup is packed with nutrition, and is known for its unique flavor and texture.

What is Oxtail?

Oxtail is a cut of beef taken from the tail of a cow or ox. It is a relatively tough cut of meat, and is usually cooked over a long period of time to make it tender. Oxtail is a great source of lean protein and contains essential minerals and vitamins, such as iron and zinc. Oxtail is also a great source of collagen, making it great for joints, skin, and hair.

Oxtail Soup Ingredients

Oxtail soup typically includes oxtail, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Some of the most common vegetables used in oxtail soup are carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. Herbs, such as bay leaves and thyme, are also commonly used, as well as seasonings, such as garlic, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. The soup is usually finished off with a splash of red wine or brandy, and is served with crusty bread or rolls.

How to Make Oxtail Soup

Making oxtail soup can be a time-consuming process, but is well worth the effort. The first step is to season the oxtail with salt and pepper, then brown it in a pot with a tablespoon of oil. Once the oxtail is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside. Next, add the vegetables to the pot, such as carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes. Saute the vegetables until they are softened, then add the oxtail back to the pot. Add enough water to cover the oxtail, then add the herbs and seasonings. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least two hours, or until the oxtail is tender. Once the oxtail is cooked, add the splash of red wine or brandy, then serve with crusty bread or rolls.

How to Store Oxtail Soup

Once the oxtail soup is cooked, the leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, or can be frozen for up to two months. When reheating the soup, make sure it is heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that any harmful bacteria has been killed. The soup can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nutritional value of oxtail soup?

Oxtail soup is a great source of lean protein and contains essential minerals and vitamins, such as iron and zinc. Oxtail is also a great source of collagen, making it great for joints, skin, and hair.

Can oxtail soup be frozen?

Yes, oxtail soup can be frozen for up to two months. When reheating the soup, make sure it is heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that any harmful bacteria has been killed.

How long does oxtail soup take to cook?

Oxtail soup typically takes at least two hours to cook, or until the oxtail is tender. The soup should be simmered over low heat for this time period, and the vegetables should be added after the oxtail has been browned.

What kind of herbs are used in oxtail soup?

Common herbs used in oxtail soup include bay leaves, thyme, and parsley. Other seasonings, such as garlic, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, can also be used to add flavor to the soup.

Can oxtail soup be made without wine or brandy?

Yes, oxtail soup can be made without wine or brandy. The soup will still have a flavorful broth, but the addition of a splash of wine or brandy will add a deeper flavor to the soup.