Beef Oxtail Recipe

To make a delicious beef oxtail dish, gather 3-4 lbs of beef oxtails, 3 cups of beef stock, a large onion, garlic, bay leaves, and fresh thyme. Season with black peppercorns, kosher salt, or other spices you prefer. First, sear the oxtails to enhance flavor. Then, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker or braise in the oven at 325°F for 5-6 hours. Optional additions like carrots or red wine can boost taste. This dish is nutrient-rich and perfect for hearty meals. Keep exploring to find tips on enhancing flavors and cooking techniques.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

You’ll find that this beef oxtail recipe is a delightful choice for any meal. It offers several nutritional benefits, like being high in protein and rich in iron, B12, and zinc.

Each 100g serving provides 25.9g of protein and almost 25% of the daily iron requirement for adult males. Additionally, oxtail is known for its rich beefy flavor, which enhances the overall dish.

Cooking oxtail has its advantages too. The slow cooking method makes the meat tender and flavorful, thanks to the fat and bone marrow.

You can customize it by adding various vegetables, enhancing its nutritional content. While it does have moderate fat and cholesterol, it also provides a significant energy source with 30.93g of protein.

Recipe

Beef oxtail is a rich and flavorful cut of meat that transforms into a tender, succulent dish when slow-cooked or braised. Known for its gelatinous texture and deep flavor, oxtail is perfect for hearty stews or as a comforting main course. This recipe will guide you through the process of preparing and cooking oxtails to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth result. The combination of aromatics, herbs, and a savory broth creates a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the meat.

To start, it’s vital to choose high-quality oxtails with ample meat on them, as this contributes to the overall flavor of the dish. Before cooking, verify that your oxtails are fully thawed, and coat them in flour for a nice crust. The cooking methods provided will yield tender oxtails that are infused with the flavors of the ingredients used, resulting in a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Oxtails hold cultural significance in soul food traditions, making them a staple in many households.

Ingredients:
– 3-4 pounds beef oxtails
– 3 cups beef stock or beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– Bay leaves
– Fresh thyme
– Black peppercorns
– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, divided
– Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt
– Ground black pepper
– Seasoned salt
– Granulated garlic
– Granulated onion
– Optional: carrots, potatoes, red wine or ale, smoked paprika, soy sauce, tomato paste

Cooking Instructions:
1. Fully thaw the beef oxtails if frozen. Coat the oxtails with flour, verifying they’re well covered, then shake off the excess flour.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the oxtail pieces in the hot oil until they’re browned on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re fragrant and softened.
4. Add the beef stock, bay leaves, thyme, and black peppercorns to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the seared oxtails to the pan, verifying they’re submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan and cook in the oven at 325°F for several hours until the oxtails are fork-tender.
6. Alternatively, for a slow cooker method, place the oxtails along with the sautéed onions and garlic into the slow cooker with the beef stock and spices. Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours.
7. Once cooked, remove the oxtails from the oven or slow cooker and let them rest. Meanwhile, reduce the cooking liquid on the stovetop and thicken it with a mixture of cornstarch or tapioca flour mixed with cold water.
8. Serve the oxtails warm, drizzled with the thickened sauce.

When preparing beef oxtails, consider the addition of your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Carrots and potatoes are excellent choices that can be added during the last hour of cooking.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices, herbs, or even a splash of red wine or ale to enhance the sauce’s richness. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, verifying a perfect balance of flavors. Enjoy the comforting and hearty nature of this dish!

Final Thoughts

While oxtail may not be the most common cut of meat, it offers a unique blend of flavor and nutrition that makes it worth exploring. Here are some key points to evaluate:

• Nutritional Value: Oxtail is high in protein, providing about 35g per 4 oz, and contains essential minerals like iron and zinc.

• Health Benefits: It’s rich in collagen, which supports joint health, and provides omega-3 fatty acids when grass-fed. Additionally, grass-fed oxtail offers higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which can have various health benefits.

• Nutritional Considerations: Be mindful of its high sodium and cholesterol content, which can affect heart health.

• Cooking and Usage: Searing before slow cooking enhances flavor, and pairing with vegetables makes meals even more nutritious.

Incorporating oxtail into your meals can be both delicious and beneficial for your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Oxtail for This Recipe?

Did you know that cooking frozen oxtails doesn’t change cooking time considerably? Yes, you can use frozen oxtail for this recipe. Just remember to adjust cooking methods slightly for the best results!

How Long Does Oxtail Need to Cook for Tenderness?

To achieve tenderness, oxtail needs to cook for about 3-3.5 hours on the stovetop, 25-30 minutes in a pressure cooker, or 5 hours boiling. Always check for tenderness during the cooking process.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Oxtail?

Imagine a feast where flavors dance. You’ll love pairing oxtail with creamy mashed potatoes, garlic rolls, or roasted carrots. Don’t forget a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop!

Can I Substitute Oxtail With Another Cut of Beef?

Yes, you can substitute oxtail with cuts like chuck roast or brisket. These alternatives require slow cooking to enhance their flavors, making them great options for stews and braises. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How Do I Store Leftover Oxtail?

To store leftover oxtail, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 12 months. Always thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.