Savory Oxtail and Barley Soup

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Savory Oxtail and Barley Soup.

1. Step 1

   Begin by heating olive oil in a large, heavy frying pan over medium-high heat.

2. Step 2

   Add the oxtails and sauté them until they achieve a rich, golden-brown color on all sides, which should take about three minutes per side.

3. Step 3

   Once browned, transfer the oxtails to paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Step 4

   Next, move the oxtails to a spacious Dutch oven or soup pot.

5. Step 5

   Pour in water and add beef bouillon granules, sazón seasoning, dried parsley, minced garlic, and black pepper.

6. Step 6

   Bring this flavorful mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the oxtails become tender, which will take around one hour.

7. Step 7

   Keep an eye on the pot and add more water if necessary during the cooking process.

8. Step 8

   After the oxtails are tender, remove them from the pot and place them on a plate to cool.

9. Step 9

   Skim off any grease from the surface of the broth using a spoon or a gravy separator.

10. Step 10

    Alternatively, refrigerate the broth until the fat solidifies, then easily remove it with a spoon before returning the broth to the pot.

11. Step 11

    Now, introduce diced tomatoes and barley to the pot, followed by cubed potatoes, sliced parsnip, chopped onion, chopped celery, sliced carrot, quartered mushrooms, and bay leaves.

12. Step 12

    Bring this vibrant mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 20 minutes.

13. Step 13

    While the vegetables are cooking, carefully remove the meat from the cooled oxtail bones, chopping it into bite-sized pieces before adding it back to the soup along with the bones.

14. Step 14

    Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, letting all those flavors meld beautifully.

15. Step 15

    Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bones and bay leaves, ensuring a delightful and hearty bowl of soup awaits you.

16. Step 16

    Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones.