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Oxtails

This Oxtails Recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and comfort food goodness, featuring rich flavors and tender meat, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3-4 pounds oxtails Choose oxtails with good marbling for flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the oxtails.
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1 cup red wine Do not skip, essential for flavor.
  • 4 cups beef broth Use low sodium if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by seasoning the oxtails generously with salt and pepper.
Searing
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the oxtails in batches and sear them until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Remove the oxtails from the pot and set aside.
Sautéing Vegetables
  1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
  2. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Flavor Building
  1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.
  2. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce.
Combine
  1. Return the oxtails to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
  2. Add the dried thyme and bay leaves, then bring to a gentle simmer.
Cooking
  1. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low, allowing it to simmer for 150-180 minutes, or until oxtails are tender.
Serving
  1. Remove the bay leaves and serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
  2. Optionally, pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Notes

Searing is crucial for flavor. Oxtails taste better the next day, and a heavy-bottom pot is recommended for even cooking.