If you’re looking for a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish, this oxtail soup recipe is the best you’ll ever try. The tender meat, slow-cooked to perfection, falls off the bone and is infused with deep, savory flavors. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or crockpot, this soup is a true delight that will warm your soul.
Why You’ll Love This Oxtail Soup
- Rich & Flavorful: The bone marrow in oxtail creates a deep, meaty broth.
- Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender: Slow cooking breaks down the tough fibers, making the meat incredibly soft.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: You can make this using a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or a traditional stovetop method.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, collagen, and minerals, this is one of the best healthy oxtail recipes out there.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ lbs oxtail, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large potato, diced
- 1 cup tomatoes, chopped (or canned)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp oil (for browning)
Instructions
Slow Cooker Oxtail Soup Method
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Brown the oxtail on all sides, then transfer to a slow cooker.
- In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add them to the crockpot.
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, tomatoes, and all seasonings. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours until the meat is tender.
- Remove the oxtail, shred the meat off the bones, and return it to the soup. Serve hot.
Instant Pot Oxtail Soup Method
- Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and brown the oxtail in oil.
- Add onions, garlic, and seasonings, sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add all vegetables.
- Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 45 minutes, followed by a natural release.
- Shred the meat off the bones and return to the soup. Serve warm.
Oxtail Stew Recipe (Slow Cooker Version)
For a heartier version, turn this into an oxtail stew by thickening the broth. Add 2 tablespoons of flour mixed with a little water in the last hour of cooking. This creates a rich, velvety texture similar to the best oxtail stew recipe you’ve ever had.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over rice for a filling meal.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra flavor.
Prep & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker) or 45 minutes (Instant Pot)
- Total Time: Varies based on the method used
This oxtail soup crockpot recipe is truly one of the best ways to enjoy this underrated cut of meat. Whether you’re in the mood for oxtail chili, a classic ox tail soup recipe, or a comforting oxtail stew recipe slow cooker, this dish is sure to impress.