Name: Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian/Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 3 pounds oxtail; 2 inches ginger, sliced; 6 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 whole star anise; 1 cup raw or roasted unsalted peanuts; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine or dry sherry; 6 cups water (or enough to cover); 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 daikon radish, peeled and chopped (optional); 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1 red chili, sliced (optional)

Whenever I’m in need of deep comfort, especially on a rainy day or when I’m missing the flavors of home, Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup is my go-to. It’s more than just a soup—it’s a nourishing, soul-warming bowl that brings together rich, tender oxtail, vibrant herbs, and an umami-packed broth. I’ve grown up around this dish, and it’s always been a staple at family gatherings and post-surf dinners.

The magic of this soup is in its layers of flavor—aromatic ginger and garlic, hearty peanuts, sweet star anise, and that slow-cooked depth from hours of simmering. The fresh cilantro and green onion at the end? Absolutely essential. It’s a labor of love, but the kind that rewards you with every savory, slurp-worthy spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup

This dish is hearty, wholesome, and filled with layers of flavor that develop as it simmers. It’s a one-pot wonder that combines comfort food with a uniquely Hawaiian-Asian twist. If you enjoy rich broths and fall-off-the-bone meat, this will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, the fresh toppings add brightness that balances the richness beautifully.

What Makes a Great Oxtail for This Soup?

The key is well-marbled oxtail, ideally from a trusted butcher or Asian market. The bones and marrow contribute deep flavor, and the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking. It’s worth asking your butcher to cut the oxtail into pieces for easier portioning and cooking. Make sure to blanch them first to remove impurities and ensure a clean broth.

Options for Substitutions

If you can’t find oxtail, beef shank or short ribs can be used as substitutes—they’ll still give you that rich, meaty flavor. For those avoiding peanuts, try using roasted soybeans or just skip them entirely. Some also prefer adding daikon radish or cabbage to the broth for extra body. And while cilantro and green onion are classic toppings, Thai basil or even mint can offer a unique twist.

Ingredients for this Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup

Oxtail – The star of the dish. Oxtail gives the broth its deep beefy richness and the meat becomes fall-off-the-bone tender after long simmering.
Ginger – Adds warmth and depth. It’s essential for balancing the richness of the oxtail.
Garlic – Aromatic and earthy, it brings a savory base to the broth.
Star Anise – This spice gives the soup its signature hint of sweetness and complexity.
Peanuts (raw or roasted, unsalted) – Traditional in Hawaiian-style oxtail soup, peanuts add a creamy texture and a nutty flavor.
Soy Sauce – Brings the salty umami punch and deepens the broth color.
Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the broth.
Green Onions – Used both in the broth and as a garnish, they bring freshness and brightness.
Cilantro – A final topping that gives a fresh, herbal lift to each bowl.
Chili Pepper (optional) – Adds a little kick and heat, if you like spice.
Daikon Radish (optional) – Some like to add this for extra texture and a mild, sweet flavor.
Salt – To taste, as needed during final seasoning.

Step 1: Blanch the Oxtail

Start by placing the oxtail in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse the oxtail pieces under cold water. This removes impurities and helps keep the broth clear.

Step 2: Build the Broth

In a clean stockpot, add the blanched oxtail, sliced ginger, garlic, star anise, peanuts, and enough water to cover everything. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Add soy sauce and Shaoxing wine to the pot. Cover and let it simmer gently for at least 2.5 to 3 hours. Check occasionally, skim off any foam or fat, and add water if needed to keep the oxtail submerged.

Step 4: Optional Veggies

If using daikon or other vegetables, add them during the last 45 minutes of cooking so they become tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Once the oxtail is tender and the broth is flavorful, taste and adjust with salt or more soy sauce if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top generously with chopped cilantro, green onions, and sliced chili pepper if desired. Serve hot, ideally with a side of rice or a dipping sauce of soy sauce and chili oil.

How Long to Prepare the Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup

Preparation Time: Blanching the oxtail and chopping aromatics takes about 20 to 30 minutes. This is essential to ensure your broth is clear and your ingredients are properly prepped.

Cooking Time: The soup requires a gentle simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours to develop its rich, deep flavor and for the oxtail to become fork-tender. If you’re adding daikon or other vegetables, factor in another 30–45 minutes towards the end.

Tips for Perfect Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup

Always blanch the oxtail first—it removes scum and ensures a clean broth.
Use a fine-mesh skimmer to periodically remove foam and fat while simmering.
Let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Add fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their bright flavor.
For an extra clear broth, you can strain and reheat it before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the blanching step – This can lead to a murky, greasy broth.
Overcrowding the pot – Make sure ingredients are well spaced so the soup simmers evenly.
Boiling too aggressively – It can make the meat tough and the broth cloudy. Always simmer gently.
Adding salt too early – Let the broth concentrate first, then season at the end.
Overcooking vegetables – Add vegetables later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.

What to Serve With Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Perfect for soaking up the rich broth and balancing the savory flavor.

Chili Soy Dipping Sauce

A mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil for dipping the meat—adds bold contrast.

Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables

A tangy side dish adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the soup.

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Slightly sweet and pillowy, these rolls complement the savory soup beautifully.

Sautéed Bok Choy

A light, garlicky green vegetable side that adds freshness to your meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over the stove.

Freezing: This soup freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop. You may want to add fresh garnishes after reheating for brightness.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 820mg
Cholesterol: 125mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the oxtail is done?

The meat should be tender and easily come off the bone with a fork. This usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours of simmering.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the oxtail and aromatics, then pressure cook for 45–60 minutes or slow cook on low for 8 hours.

Is it necessary to use star anise?

Star anise adds a subtle sweetness and depth. If you don’t have it, the soup will still be good, but it will miss that unique flavor layer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in the fridge and reheat gently.

What’s the best way to skim fat from the soup?

Use a spoon while it simmers or chill the soup and remove the solidified fat from the top before reheating.

Conclusion

Hawaii Style Oxtail Soup is a comfort classic that’s worth every minute of slow simmering. With its rich broth, tender meat, and fresh garnishes, it strikes a perfect balance between hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re craving a taste of the islands or just need a bowl of something soulful, this soup delivers on all fronts. Don’t be afraid to experiment with add-ins or spice levels to make it your own!