Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Malaysian Oxtail Broth?
It is a deeply aromatic and satisfying clear soup infused with traditional spices, featuring tender shredded meat and a complex umami taste.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What are the nutritional highlights per serving?
Each serving contains 331.5 calories, 23.125g of fat, 24.375g of protein, and 3.125g of carbohydrates.
What primary meat is used in this soup?
The recipe calls for 2.5 lbs of oxtails, cut into 2-inch pieces.
What aromatics are needed for the initial broth?
You will need halved onion with the peel left on, crushed garlic, and lightly crushed cilantro sprigs.
Which spices give the broth its flavor?
The broth is flavored with a cinnamon stick, ground cumin, whole coriander seeds, and a dried red chili.
How long does the oxtail need to simmer initially?
The oxtails should simmer for 2 hours while covered.
Why is the onion peel left on?
Leaving the peel on the onion during the initial simmer helps add a rich color and depth to the broth.
How much liquid is required for the soup base?
You need 4 cups of beef broth plus enough water to cover the ingredients by 1.5 inches.
Is this oxtail soup spicy?
It has a hint of heat provided by one dried red chili, creating a complex flavor profile.
When do I season the broth with salt and pepper?
Season the broth after the initial 2-hour simmer, then continue to simmer for another 15 minutes uncovered.
Do I serve the oxtails whole or shredded?
The meat is shredded from the bones, and the bones and excess fat are discarded before final assembly.
How do I clarify the broth?
Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth and allow it to cool for an hour to skim off the surface fat.
What ingredients are added to the clarified broth for final infusion?
Finely slivered ginger and additional slivered garlic are added to the returned broth.
How long is the final infusion simmer?
Simmer the clarified broth with ginger and garlic for 10 minutes before adding the meat back.
What is the last step before serving?
Stir in coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves and cook for an additional minute.
What are the recommended garnishes?
The soup is best served alongside fresh herbs and lime for a bright finishing touch.
How much ginger is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of fresh ginger, finely slivered.
How much garlic is needed in total?
The recipe uses 5 cloves of crushed garlic for the initial boil and 1 tablespoon of finely slivered garlic for the final infusion.
What should the size of the cinnamon stick be?
A cinnamon stick approximately 3 inches long is recommended.
Does the recipe contain fiber?
The nutritional data indicates no significant fiber content.
Is there sugar in this soup?
No, this recipe does not include any added sugar.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 3.125g of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this soup similar to any other dishes?
The flavor profile is noted to be reminiscent of traditional Vietnamese Pho due to the aromatic spices.
How do I prepare the cilantro sprigs for the base?
The roots and stems should be lightly crushed before being added to the pot.
What type of pot is best for this recipe?
A large, heavy-bottomed soup pot is ideal for maintaining even heat during the long simmer.
When do I add the shredded meat back to the soup?
Add the reserved meat back into the broth after it has simmered with the ginger and garlic for 10 minutes.
How long do I cook the meat once it is added back to the broth?
Cook the shredded meat in the broth for about 5 minutes to ensure it is heated through.
What is the preparation for the cilantro leaves?
Use 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped.
Why must the broth cool for an hour?
Cooling allows the fat to rise to the top so it can be easily skimmed off and discarded for a cleaner broth.