Craving a comforting, flavorful, and deeply satisfying meal? Look no further than this delicious Hawaiian Oxtail Soup recipe! This isn't your average soup; it's a culinary journey to the islands, bringing the rich tastes of Hawaii right to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or impressing guests with a truly unique and delicious dish. It's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and the results are unbelievably rewarding. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this healthy and flavorful meal!
Ingredients for Your Hawaiian Oxtail Soup Adventure:
- 2 lbs oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide to Island Flavors
This quick dinner idea comes together beautifully with these simple steps:
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Sear the Oxtail: Season the oxtail pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the oxtail in batches until nicely browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor Base: Return the oxtail to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, water, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the oxtail is very tender. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be!
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Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering soup, stirring constantly until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving. This healthy meal is best enjoyed hot!
Cooking Tips for Oxtail Soup Perfection:
- Choose your Oxtail Wisely: Look for oxtail that is firm and has a deep red color. The quality of your oxtail greatly impacts the taste of your soup.
- Don't Rush the Simmering: The longer the oxtail simmers, the more tender it becomes. Patience is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup frequently and adjust the soy sauce, brown sugar, and pepper to your liking.
Variations on a Hawaiian Theme:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms to your soup.
- Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Citrus Burst: A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end adds a bright, refreshing touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This Hawaiian Oxtail Soup is a true testament to the deliciousness of homemade cooking. It’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!