Chinese clear oxtail soup

Chinese Clear Oxtail Soup Recipe - Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese clear oxtail soup is a traditional dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and hearty meal.

History

The origins of Chinese clear oxtail soup can be traced back to ancient Chinese culinary traditions. Oxtail has long been a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine, prized for its rich flavor and tender texture. This soup is often served as a nourishing and warming dish, especially during the colder months.

Ingredients

6 slices of meaty oxtail, with fat removed
2 spring onions, cut into 2-inch lengths
2 inches of ginger root, sliced
2 tsp of salt
0.5 cup of chinese rice wine
0.5 tsp of white pepper

How to prepare

Blanch the oxtail in boiling water.
Place the blanched oxtail, spring onions, ginger, wine, and salt in a pan. Cover the oxtail with water.
Cover the pan and bring it to a boil. Simmer until the oxtail is tender.
Sprinkle pepper on top just before serving. Serve with one piece of oxtail per bowl.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bok choy or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Use different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of the soup to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the oxtail before cooking to remove any impurities and excess fat.

- Simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

- Season the soup with salt and white pepper to enhance the flavors of the oxtail and other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chinese clear oxtail soup with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the oxtail before cooking helps to remove impurities and excess fat.

- Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find oxtail, you can use beef shank or short ribs as a substitute.

- Chinese rice wine can be replaced with dry sherry or white wine.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chinese clear oxtail soup with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese clear oxtail soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains minimal carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The oxtail in this soup provides a good source of healthy fats, which can help support overall health and well-being.

Proteins

Oxtail is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as soy and wheat, so be sure to check for any dietary restrictions before serving.

Summary

Overall, Chinese clear oxtail soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of protein, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese clear oxtail soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its rich flavors and tender meat, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Chinese clear oxtail soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mei at her home in Chinatown. Mei was a talented cook, and I always admired her ability to whip up delicious and authentic Chinese dishes with ease.

As I sat in Mei's kitchen, sipping on a cup of fragrant jasmine tea, she suddenly disappeared into her pantry and returned with a large pot of simmering oxtail soup. The aroma that wafted from the pot was intoxicating, and I couldn't help but ask Mei for the recipe.

Mei smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Ah, this is a family secret," she said. "But I suppose I can share it with you, my dear friend."

And so, Mei began to teach me the intricacies of making Chinese clear oxtail soup. She explained that the key to a flavorful and clear broth lies in the slow simmering of the oxtails, along with the careful skimming of impurities that rise to the surface. Mei also showed me how to season the soup with traditional Chinese spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, which added a depth of flavor that was truly remarkable.

Over the next few weeks, I practiced making Chinese clear oxtail soup in my own kitchen, following Mei's instructions to the letter. I was determined to perfect the recipe and impress my family with a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.

As I stirred the pot of simmering oxtails, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the time I spent with Mei in her kitchen. Her laughter and gentle guidance echoed in my mind, spurring me on as I continued to hone my cooking skills.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I ladled the steaming broth into bowls and garnished it with fresh cilantro and green onions. As my family sat down at the dinner table, I watched with bated breath as they took their first spoonfuls of the soup.

To my delight, their faces lit up with pleasure as they tasted the rich and savory broth. The oxtails were tender and flavorful, and the spices added a subtle warmth that lingered on the palate.

My family showered me with praise, declaring the Chinese clear oxtail soup to be a triumph. I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in my chest as I watched them savor every last drop of the soup.

From that moment on, Chinese clear oxtail soup became a staple in my household, a dish that evoked memories of my time spent with Mei and the bonds of friendship that we shared. I continued to tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations to make it truly my own.

As the years passed, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Chinese clear oxtail soup to a new generation of cooks. And each time I made the soup, I felt a deep sense of connection to Mei and the rich culinary heritage that she had imparted to me.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aroma of simmering oxtail soup, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood my mind. Mei may be gone, but her legacy lives on in every batch of Chinese clear oxtail soup that I make.

And so, I continue to cook and create, preserving the tradition of this beloved recipe and sharing it with all who appreciate the beauty and complexity of authentic Chinese cuisine. For me, Chinese clear oxtail soup is more than just a dish – it's a testament to the power of friendship, tradition, and the joy of cooking.