Oxtails Alsatian Style

Cut the oxtail at a joint of the bone in three inch lengths. Soak them in lukewarm water for one hour, changing the water twice during the time, then throw them in cold water, and drain. Mask the bottom of a saucepan with fragments of ham and bacon, roots and sliced onions; set the pieces of oxtail on top, and cover them up entirely with broth leaving the fat on, and a little brandy. Four hours before dinner boil the liquid, skim, then set the pot in the oven to finish. When ready, strain the broth through a very fine sieve, remove all the fat, and let it rest quietly without stirring. Decant it carefully, pouring it over the oxtails, and leave it until nearly cold, then lift them out; trim the pieces and dip them in melted butter. Roll them in fresh bread-crumbs and broil them on a very slow fire. Arrange them over some cooked sauerkraut (No. 2819), garnishing the dish, and serving a good gravy separate.