Oxtail Soup Trinidad

Oxtail Soup Trinidad Recipe - Authentic Caribbean Cuisine

Region / culture: Trinidad and Tobago | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Oxtail Soup Trinidad is a hearty and flavorful soup that is a staple in Trinidadian cuisine. This dish is made with tender oxtails, lentils, vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold day or when you are craving a taste of the Caribbean.

History

Oxtail Soup Trinidad has its roots in Trinidad and Tobago, where oxtails are a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes. Oxtails were originally a cheap cut of meat that was often used in soups and stews to stretch a meal and add flavor. Over time, oxtail soup became a beloved comfort food in Trinidadian households and is now enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of lean oxtails, jointed
0.5 lb (227 g) of pre-soaked dry beans, split peas, or lentils
2 small onions
salt to taste
2 or 3 medium carrots
0.5 bunch of chives
2 sprigs of thyme
1 whole hot pepper (scotch bonnet)
2 or 3 cloves of garlic

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, combine the meat, carrots, soaked peas or beans, and enough water to cover the ingredients.
Cook until the meat and beans or peas are tender.
Skim off any fat and add more water to reach the desired quantity of soup.
Add all the remaining ingredients and simmer until the soup has a mellow taste.
Before it bursts, remove the hot pepper. Discard the pepper or serve it on the side if you dare!
Adjust the seasoning to taste and, if desired, add sherry before serving the soup hot.

Variations

Add potatoes or yams for a heartier soup.
Use different types of beans or lentils for variety.
Add coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, brown the oxtails before adding them to the pot.

- Soaking the lentils beforehand can help reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

- Adjust the amount of salt and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer broth, you can add beef or vegetable stock to the soup.

- Serve the soup with a side of rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Oxtail Soup Trinidad can be served as a main course with a side of rice or bread. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty and comforting meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the oxtails before cooking can enhance the flavor of the soup.

- Simmering the soup slowly over low heat can help develop the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use beef or lamb shanks as a substitute for oxtails.

- Use any type of lentils or beans that you prefer.

Make Ahead Tips

Oxtail Soup Trinidad can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as the soup sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Oxtail Soup Trinidad in a large bowl garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of sherry. You can also serve it with a side of rice or bread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Oxtail Soup Trinidad pairs well with a light and refreshing salad or a side of steamed vegetables. It also goes well with a glass of red wine or a fruity tropical drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Oxtail Soup Trinidad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Oxtail Soup Trinidad contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Oxtail Soup Trinidad contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Oxtail Soup Trinidad contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Oxtail Soup Trinidad contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Oxtail Soup Trinidad is a good source of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Oxtail Soup Trinidad may contain allergens such as soy and wheat.

Summary

Oxtail Soup Trinidad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Oxtail Soup Trinidad is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. This flavorful soup is packed with tender oxtails, lentils, and vegetables, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Enjoy a taste of the Caribbean with this traditional Trinidadian recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was many years ago, during a trip to Trinidad, where I had the pleasure of tasting the most delicious Oxtail Soup I had ever had.

I remember walking through the bustling streets of Port of Spain, the vibrant colors and sounds of the Caribbean filling the air. As I passed by a small street vendor, the delicious aroma of simmering oxtail soup caught my attention. Intrigued, I decided to stop and try a bowl.

As I took my first spoonful, I was immediately transported to a world of rich flavors and spices. The tender oxtail meat melted in my mouth, the savory broth warming me from the inside out. It was a taste unlike anything I had ever experienced before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached the vendor and asked her about the recipe. She smiled warmly and told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She offered to show me how to make it, and I eagerly accepted her offer.

We spent the afternoon in her small kitchen, as she guided me through the process of making Oxtail Soup Trinidad. She showed me how to brown the oxtail pieces to seal in the flavor, how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were fragrant, and how to add the perfect blend of spices to create a rich and flavorful broth.

As the soup simmered on the stovetop, filling the kitchen with its mouthwatering aroma, the vendor shared stories of her family and their love for this traditional dish. She told me how her grandmother had taught her how to make it when she was just a little girl, and how she had passed the recipe down to her own children.

I listened intently, soaking in every detail of the recipe and the history behind it. It was a special moment, connecting with a stranger over a shared love of food and tradition.

Finally, the soup was ready. I ladled myself a steaming bowlful, the tender oxtail meat falling off the bone and the broth rich and flavorful. I took a sip, and it was as delicious as I remembered.

As I savored the soup, I thanked the vendor for her generosity and kindness in sharing her family recipe with me. She smiled and told me that she was happy to pass it on to someone who appreciated it as much as she did.

I returned home from Trinidad with a heart full of gratitude and a notebook full of new recipes. The Oxtail Soup Trinidad recipe held a special place in my collection, a reminder of that memorable day in Port of Spain.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times for my family and friends, each batch just as delicious as the first. I have shared the recipe with anyone who is willing to listen, passing on the tradition and the love that goes into making it.

And every time I make Oxtail Soup Trinidad, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Trinidad, the taste of the soup bringing back memories of laughter, stories, and the joy of discovering a new recipe. It is a memory that I will always hold dear, a reminder of the power of food to connect us across cultures and generations.