Introduction
Instant Pot Oxtail Soup is a flavorful, nourishing dish that brings together tender, fall-off-the-bone oxtail with a rich, aromatic broth. Cooking it in an Instant Pot drastically reduces the time required compared to traditional slow cooking, making it perfect for busy home cooks who still want deep, complex flavors. This dish is loved worldwide for its rich texture, comforting warmth, and health benefits.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Fast & Convenient – The Instant Pot makes cooking oxtail much quicker while keeping the flavors intact.
- Rich & Nourishing – Packed with collagen and nutrients from slow-simmered bones.
- Comfort Food at Its Best – A warm, hearty soup perfect for any season.
- Versatile & Customizable – Can be adapted with different vegetables and spices to suit your taste.
Origins of Oxtail Soup
Oxtail soup has roots in multiple cuisines, including Caribbean, Korean, Chinese, and European traditions. Originally, oxtail was considered a cheaper cut of meat, used in slow-cooked stews and soups to extract maximum flavor and nutrition. Over time, it became a beloved delicacy due to its unique taste and health benefits.
Ingredients
For the Oxtail Soup:
- 2–3 lbs oxtail, trimmed
- 6 cups beef broth or water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
1. Brown the Oxtail
- Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add oil.
- Brown the oxtail pieces on all sides for deep flavor.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and paprika.
3. Add Broth and Spices
- Pour in the beef broth and add bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set it to “Pressure Cook” (High) for 45 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables
- Quick-release pressure, then add carrots, potatoes, and celery.
- Pressure cook for another 10 minutes.
5. Final Adjustments & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove the bay leaf and garnish with green onions before serving hot.
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use a natural pressure release – This helps keep the meat tender.
- Brown the oxtail well – This step enhances the overall depth of flavor.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving – It allows the flavors to meld together.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping the browning step – Reduces the depth of flavor.
- Overcrowding the pot – Oxtail needs room to cook properly and absorb flavors.
- Not skimming the fat – Oxtail is fatty, so skim excess fat from the broth for a cleaner taste.
Serving Tips
- Serve hot with rice, dumplings, or crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
- A side of steamed greens or coleslaw balances the dish.
- Garnish with fresh green onions or parsley for an extra layer of freshness.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Oxtail – Rich in collagen for joint and skin health.
- Garlic & onions – Known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Carrots & celery – High in fiber and essential vitamins.
- Bone broth – Great for gut health and immunity.
Summary of Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Quick Steps:
- Brown the oxtail in an Instant Pot.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and spices.
- Add broth and pressure cook for 45 minutes.
- Add vegetables and pressure cook for 10 more minutes.
- Adjust seasoning, garnish, and serve hot.
Interesting Facts About Oxtail Soup
- Oxtail soup is a popular dish in Korean cuisine, where it’s called “Kkori Gomtang.”
- In Jamaican cooking, oxtail is often paired with butter beans and served over rice.
- The collagen-rich broth is great for skin and joint health.
This Instant Pot Oxtail Soup is the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. Try it today for a quick and satisfying meal!