Oxtail soup

Oxtail soup - A traditional delicacy that blends flavors and nostalgia

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Welcome to the culinary universe of oxtail soup! This recipe is not just a simple soup, but a true journey into the world of rich flavors and unique aromas. Oxtail soup evokes memories of family Sunday dinners when everyone gathered around the table to enjoy dishes cooked with love.

A bit of history
Oxtail soup is a traditional recipe that has its roots in rural cuisine. Oxtail is an ingredient that is less commonly used today, but in days gone by, it was considered a delicacy, rich in gelatin and with a unique texture. This soup is not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for colder days.

Essential ingredients
- 1 oxtail (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 1 small celery root
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for added color)
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 250 ml cabbage juice
- A bunch of fresh lovage
- Noodles or rice, as preferred
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the oxtail
The first step is essential: wash the oxtail well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, cut it into smaller pieces, about 5-6 cm each. These pieces will cook more evenly and allow the flavors to develop optimally.

Initial boiling
Place the pieces of oxtail in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to remove it using a skimmer to achieve a clear and pleasant soup. After removing the foam, drain the water from the pot and wash the oxtail again under cold water. This step helps improve the final taste of the soup.

Adding the vegetables
Once the oxtail is clean, pour fresh water into the pot and bring it back to a boil. Add the whole onion (you can leave it unpeeled to preserve its aroma), carrot, parsnip, parsley root, and celery, all cleaned and cut into large pieces. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about an hour, until the meat starts to come off the bone.

Adding aromatic ingredients
When the meat is tender, it's time to add the tomato juice. This will give the soup a beautiful color and a sweet-sour taste. After adding the tomato juice, let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, then add the cabbage juice. This will add a distinct flavor and enrich the aroma of the soup.

Noodles or rice?
After the necessary time has passed for the flavors to absorb, add the noodles or rice (as preferred) to the soup. Let it boil according to the instructions on the package, usually between 5 and 10 minutes. Check the consistency and make sure they do not stick together.

Finishing and serving
When the noodles or rice are cooked, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped lovage, which will bring a fresh and vibrant note to the soup. The final taste will be a harmonious combination of flavors, and the oxtail soup will be ready to be enjoyed.

Serving suggestions
Oxtail soup is served hot, alongside hot peppers for those who appreciate a bit of spiciness. Additionally, a slice of homemade bread will perfectly complete the meal. You can add a spoonful of sour cream if you want an even creamier taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Oxtail is rich in collagen, which helps joint health, and the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. A serving of oxtail soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use beef tail instead of oxtail?
Yes, beef tail is an excellent choice and will provide a similar taste.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or even potatoes to add variety.

3. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, oxtail soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the noodles or rice only at serving to prevent sogginess.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, try adding a few bay leaves or black peppercorns during boiling to intensify the aroma. Also, a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar added at the end can provide an interesting note of acidity.

Oxtail soup is a recipe that will bring warmth and comfort to every bowl. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it is a dish that will surely become a favorite in your family! Cooking with patience and love, the result will meet your expectations. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: one beef tail, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 parsnip, one root of parsley, one small root of celery, 1 bell pepper, 200 ml tomato juice, 250 ml cabbage juice, one bunch of lovage, noodles or rice to taste

 Tags:  beef soup