Hearty and Flavorful Oxtail Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Tender Beef and Vegetables

Here is a recipe for Oxtail Soup:

Oxtail soup is a rich and satisfying dish that highlights the deep, robust flavors of slow-cooked oxtail, complemented by a medley of aromatic vegetables and herbs. The gelatin in the oxtail bones gives the broth a rich and silky texture, making it a perfect comfort food for cold evenings. This recipe will guide you through creating a traditional oxtail soup that is sure to warm both your body and soul.

### Ingredients:

For the Soup:- 2 pounds oxtails- 1 large onion, chopped- 2 large carrots, chopped- 2 celery stalks, chopped- 3 cloves garlic, minced- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes- 2 tablespoons tomato paste- 4 cups beef broth- 2 cups water- 2 bay leaves- 1 teaspoon dried thyme- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Serving:- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)- Crusty bread (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oxtails:- Rinse the oxtails under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.- Season the oxtails generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Oxtails:- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat.- Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides. This should take about 8-10 minutes.- Remove the oxtails from the pot and set them aside.

3. Build the Soup Base:- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:- Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Stir to combine.- Add the bay leaves and dried thyme.- Return the browned oxtails to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid.

5. Simmer the Soup:- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.- Let the soup simmer for about 3-4 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the meat easily falls off the bone.- Skim off any excess fat from the surface as the soup cooks.

6. Shred the Meat:- Once the oxtails are tender, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly.- Shred the meat from the bones and return it to the soup.

7. Final Touches:- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.- If desired, stir in some fresh chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

8. Serve and Enjoy:- Ladle the hot oxtail soup into bowls.- Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful oxtail soup as a comforting meal that will keep you warm and satisfied!