Introduction and Origin
Braised oxtail is a time-honored dish cherished across the globe. Traditionally made from the tail of a cow, it was once considered a humble cut. However, when slow-cooked to perfection, oxtails become meltingly tender and flavorful, transforming into a gourmet treasure. This dish thrives on time, patience, and bold, layered seasoning.
Cultural Significance
Oxtail dishes have strong roots in African, Caribbean, Asian, and European cuisines. In Jamaica, it’s often served with rice and peas. In Italy, it becomes coda alla vaccinara, and in Korea, it features in soups like kkori gomtang. Universally, it symbolizes comfort, celebration, and culinary heritage—making the most of every part of the animal.
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Ingredients Quantity
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 to 3 pounds oxtails, trimmed of excess fat
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 bay leaf
1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
1 cup red wine (optional, for depth)
3 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish
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Optional Additions
Scotch bonnet pepper (whole) for Caribbean heat
Cloves or cinnamon stick for warm spice undertones
Potatoes or white beans for heartiness
Soy sauce for umami and salt
Green onions added at the end for brightness
Cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce, if desired
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Tips for Success
Brown the oxtails well to build a deep flavor base. Don’t rush this step.
Use a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution.
Deglaze the pan with wine or broth to lift flavorful bits.
Simmer low and slow—at least 3 hours—for fork-tender meat.
Skim fat off the top after cooking, or refrigerate overnight and remove solidified fat for a cleaner finish.
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Instructions
1. Brown the Oxtails: Heat oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Season oxtails with salt and pepper. Brown them on all sides in batches. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, ginger, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Build the Base: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, thyme, rosemary, allspice, and bay leaf. Cook 1–2 minutes.
4. Deglaze: Pour in red wine (if using), scraping the bottom to deglaze. Simmer 2 minutes.
5. Simmer: Return oxtails to the pot. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
6. Braise: Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. Stir occasionally.
7. Adjust and Serve: Remove bay leaf and rosemary. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, polenta, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley.
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Description
This dish is rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. The oxtail becomes incredibly tender, while the sauce is aromatic, silky, and infused with herbs and spices. Each bite is a luxurious blend of savory meat, warm spices, and slow-cooked soul.
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Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~550
Protein: 38g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: ~500mg
Note: Values vary based on trimming, wine use, and portion size.
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Savory Braised Oxtails with Herb-Infused Sauce is the definition of slow food done right. It turns an economical cut into an unforgettable meal. Make it for a Sunday dinner, holiday gathering, or when you want to impress with comfort and elegance. It only gets better the next day—so leftovers are gold.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To keep this dish hearty yet health-conscious:
Trim visible fat from oxtails before browning.
Use low-sodium broth and control salt through the cooking process.
Add more vegetables like mushrooms, turnips, or greens for fiber and volume.
Serve with cauliflower mash or whole grains instead of heavy starches.
Make it ahead and skim off cooled fat for a cleaner dish.
This braised oxtail recipe is a celebration of bold flavor and slow cooking—an indulgence that fits within a wholesome lifestyle when approached mindfully.