This Braised Oxtails recipe creates a rich, tender, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Slowly braised with aromatic vegetables, spices, and savory broth, it’s an ideal dish for chilly days or any time you’re craving something cozy.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds oxtails
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 teaspoons thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, for deglazing)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
This combination of ingredients provides a deep, savory flavor with just the right balance of spices and a touch of sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oxtails:
- Season the oxtails generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the oxtails in batches, searing them on all sides for about 10 minutes. Once browned, remove the oxtails and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
- If using red wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Let the wine reduce for a couple of minutes to concentrate the flavor.
4. Simmer the Oxtails:
- Return the browned oxtails to the pot.
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, and allspice. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the oxtails are tender and the meat falls off the bone.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons flour with a little water.
- Stir the slurry into the pot and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Finish and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed.
- Serve the oxtails with the sauce poured over the top, accompanied by mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Helpful Tips
- Use a Heavy Pot for Braising: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot retains heat well and is ideal for slow braising.
- Deglaze for Extra Flavor: Red wine adds depth, but if you prefer, you can use extra broth instead.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking the oxtails over low heat for a long time ensures they become tender and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Braised Oxtails recipe is a rich and hearty dish that delivers an incredible depth of flavor. The slow cooking process creates tender, fall-off-the-bone meat, and the savory broth with aromatic vegetables makes it the ultimate comfort food.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Total Time: 3-3.5 hours
- Servings: 4-6
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Cook the oxtails in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
2. How do I store leftover oxtails?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. What other vegetables can I add?
- Potatoes, parsnips, and turnips make great additions to the braise for extra heartiness.
4. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
- Beef broth is preferred for a richer flavor, but chicken broth works in a pinch.
5. Can I skip the flour for a gluten-free option?
- Yes, you can use cornstarch instead or omit the thickener for a lighter sauce.
Conclusion
These Braised Oxtails are rich, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender, making them a perfect meal for cozy evenings. Serve them with your favorite side, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless dish!