Sep-Dinner: Oxtail Consomm

Directions

Make this consomm the day before, then chill it overnight so as to be able to scoop the fat off the top.

Float wild-rice ravioli filled with squash pure in this rich-tasting consomm.

In large 24-cup stockpot, hat oil over medium-high heat; cook oxtails for about 5 minutes or until browned.

Remove from pot and set aside.

In same pot, cook onion, leek, celery, carrot and garlic for 5 minutes or until softened.

Stir in stock, 4 cups water, oxtails, bay leaves, cloves, tomato paste, peppercorns, nutmeg and thyme.

Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 hours.

Using fine sieve, strain stock.

Refrigerate stock, uncovered, for about 12 hours or until fat has congealed.

Using slotted spoon, remove and discard fat.

Pour stock into clean stockpot.

Whisk egg whites for about 45 seconds or until foamy.

Stir in cold stock.

Over medium-high heat, continue stirring egg mixture until it reaches 37C or body temperature.

Stop stirring; bring to boil.

Reduce heat to low.

Using handle of wooden spoon, make ½-inch wide hole in egg white.

Simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes or until consomm is clear.

Leaving pot on warm element, ladle consomm into cheese cloth-lined sieve; discard egg white.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.