Hearty Oxtail: A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

Hearty oxtail is a rich and flavorful dish that warms the soul with every bite. It’s a classic comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The tender meat combined with aromatic vegetables and a savory broth creates a one-pot meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Let’s dive into why you should make this recipe and how to prepare it step by step!

Why make this recipe?

Oxtail is not just delicious; it’s also budget-friendly! This cut of meat turns incredibly tender through slow cooking, making it perfect for stewing. With the addition of vegetables and a tasty broth, you’ll have a dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s great for meal prep and stores well for leftovers, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready to go whenever you need it! 🍲

How to prepare Hearty Oxtail

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs oxtail, cut into pieces 🥩
• 1 onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 carrots, diced 🥕
• 2 celery stalks, diced 🥬
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 4 cups beef broth 🍖
• 1 cup red wine 🍷
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 🍅
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme 🌿
• 1 bay leaf 🍃
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. 🥘
2. Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the oxtail from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. 🧅🥕🥬
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently. 🧄
5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. 🍷
7. Return the oxtail to the pot, then add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
9. Once done, discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

How to serve Hearty Oxtail

Serve your hearty oxtail in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or rice for a filling meal. 🍞🥔

How to store Hearty Oxtail

Allow the oxtail to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot or microwave when ready to serve!

Tips for preparing Hearty Oxtail

• For deeper flavor, consider searing the oxtail in batches. This enhances the taste and richness of the dish.
• If you want more vegetables, feel free to add potatoes or parsnips into the pot!
• Letting the oxtail sit overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavors, as they blend together beautifully.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs such as rosemary or parsley for different flavor profiles.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
While oxtail is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can substitute it with short ribs or beef shank, though cooking times may vary.

2. Can I make Hearty Oxtail in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the oxtail and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the meat is tender.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed can be naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free.

Enjoy making this delicious Hearty Oxtail recipe! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home. 🥘❤️