This Braised Oxtails recipe is a rich and hearty dish that features tender, fall-off-the-bone oxtail meat cooked in a savory, flavorful sauce. Braising the oxtails in a blend of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and broth ensures that each piece is juicy and infused with deep flavors. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 3 pounds oxtails
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Oxtails

• Season the oxtails generously with salt and black pepper.
• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the oxtails in batches, browning them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the oxtails from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and starting to caramelize.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

• Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to darken slightly.

Step 4: Deglaze and Braise

• Pour in the red wine (if using) and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the beef broth, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
• Return the browned oxtails to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Braise in the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and falling off the bone.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce.
• Serve the braised oxtails over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Searing the Oxtails: Make sure to sear the oxtails well to develop deep, rich flavors in the dish. Don’t rush this step.
• Liquid Level: Ensure the oxtails are mostly submerged in the liquid while braising to keep them tender and juicy.
• Fat Removal: Oxtails are fatty, so skimming off excess fat before serving will help balance the richness of the dish.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Oxtails: Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced Scotch bonnet pepper for a spicy kick.
• Jamaican-Style Oxtails: Add 1 tablespoon of allspice and a teaspoon of grated ginger for a Caribbean twist.
• Slow Cooker: You can also cook this recipe in a slow cooker. After searing the oxtails and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes! Braised oxtails taste even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I freeze braised oxtails? A: Absolutely. Allow the oxtails to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with braised oxtails? A: Braised oxtails are delicious served over rice, mashed potatoes, polenta, or with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

This Braised Oxtails recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty meal. The long braising process results in tender, melt-in-your-mouth oxtail meat that’s rich in flavor, making it well worth the wait. Serve it with your favorite side dish and enjoy the deep, savory flavors that make this dish so beloved.