Here’s a list of ingredients for **Linda’s Oxtail and Barley Soup**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and relevant keywords:
- **Oxtail** (1.5–2 lbs, bone-in for rich flavor)
- **Pearl barley** (1/2 cup, rinsed and drained)
- **Beef broth** (6 cups, low-sodium for better control of flavor)
- **Carrots** (2 medium, peeled and diced)
- **Celery** (2 stalks, chopped)
- **Onion** (1 large, finely chopped)
- **Garlic** (3 cloves, minced)
- **Tomato paste** (2 tablespoons, for depth of flavor)
- **Olive oil** (2 tablespoons, for sautéing)
- **Bay leaves** (2, for aromatic seasoning)
- **Thyme** (1 teaspoon, dried or fresh)
- **Rosemary** (1/2 teaspoon, dried or fresh)
- **Salt** (to taste)
- **Black pepper** (to taste, freshly ground)
- **Parsley** (1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish)
- **Potatoes** (2 medium, peeled and cubed, optional for heartiness)
- **Worcestershire sauce** (1 tablespoon, for umami flavor)
- **Red wine** (1/2 cup, optional for added richness)
This **hearty oxtail soup recipe** is perfect for cold weather, packed with **protein-rich oxtail**, **fiber-filled barley**, and **nutrient-dense vegetables**. It’s a **comforting, slow-cooked soup** that’s easy to make and full of flavor!
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Steps
# How to Make Linda’s Hearty Oxtail and Barley Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re craving a rich, comforting, and nutritious soup, Linda’s Oxtail and Barley Soup is the perfect recipe. Packed with tender oxtail, wholesome barley, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious oxtail and barley soup that’s perfect for any season.
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### **Ingredients for Oxtail and Barley Soup**
- 2 lbs oxtail, trimmed and cleaned
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 leek, sliced (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 6 cups beef stock (or bone broth for extra richness)
- 2 cups water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Oxtail**
1. Pat the oxtail dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the oxtail pieces on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
#### **Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
1. In the same pot, add the remaining oil and sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and leek (if using) for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf to release their aromas.
#### **Step 3: Add Barley and Liquid**
1. Return the seared oxtail to the pot and add the rinsed pearl barley.
2. Pour in the beef stock and water, ensuring the oxtail is fully submerged.
#### **Step 4: Simmer the Soup**
1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the oxtail is tender and the barley is cooked.
#### **Step 5: Skim and Season**
1. Skim off any excess fat or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
#### **Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
1. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
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### **Tips for the Best Oxtail and Barley Soup**
- **Slow Cooking:** For deeper flavor, cook the soup in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
- **Barley Substitutes:** If you prefer, replace barley with farro or brown rice.
- **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This oxtail and barley soup is a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting dish. The combination of tender oxtail, chewy barley, and flavorful vegetables makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
Try Linda’s Oxtail and Barley Soup today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor!