What does oxtail mean?
Oxtail is the tail of an ox when it is prepared as food, and it also names a rich soup or stew made from that cut. The meat contains abundant connective tissue, so long, slow simmering softens it and turns its collagen into a gelatinous broth. Oxtail soup is consequently known for a deep, savory flavor and a silky texture, and it is often served with herbs and simple accompaniments such as bread or rice. Although the term sounds unusual, the dish has a long culinary history and is now enjoyed in homes, restaurants, and celebrations around the world. In everyday modern usage, oxtail most often refers to the prepared dish rather than to the raw tail or a live animal.
nounThe tail of an ox, especially the meaty cut used as food. The term also refers to a rich soup or stew traditionally made from this cut.
- The cut of meat from the tail of an ox.
- A soup, stew, or broth made from this cut, often served as a rich, hearty dish.
"She served a bowl of oxtail soup with crusty bread."
"The butcher recommended oxtail for a slow-cooked dinner."
"Oxtail soup is traditionally garnished with parsley and onions."
Plural is used when referring to multiple cuts of oxtail or multiple dishes or portions of oxtail.
"The menu includes oxtails braised in red wine."
Oxtail transforms a humble cut of meat into one of the world's most luxurious soups, simmered slowly until the rich collagen turns silky.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does oxtail come from?
Oxtail is an English compound formed from ox and tail. Both elements are inherited from Old English: ox from oxa and tail from tæl. The compound refers literally to the tail of an ox, and culinary usage developed from the practice of using the cut to make broth and soup.
How oxtail is actually used
In culinary contexts, oxtail is the standard term. In British English it may also refer to the animal's tail as a whole, although the culinary sense is by far the most common. The dish is associated with comfort food and more elaborate restaurant cooking.