Indulge in our rich and flavorful Braised Oxtails Recipe, a perfect comfort food to warm your soul with hearty, tender meat. This dish brings together deep flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will leave you longing for more. The low-and-slow cooking method ensures every bite is infused with savory goodness, making it a satisfying meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unforgettable Flavor: The slow cooking process enhances the natural richness of the oxtails, creating a deeply satisfying taste experience.
Heavenly Texture: Braised oxtails become incredibly tender and fall-off-the-bone delightful, perfect for meat lovers.
Comforting Dish: Ideal for chilly evenings, this recipe wraps you in warmth and comfort, just like a cozy blanket.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas.
Great for Meal Prep: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers and easy planning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for our Braised Oxtails Recipe are simple yet essential for crafting that irresistible flavor and experience. Each component plays a critical role in ensuring that your dish is unforgettable.

Oxtails: The star of the dish, oxtails are a rich cut of meat that becomes wonderfully tender when braised.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the richness of the meat impeccably.
Garlic: A must-have for flavor; it complements the meat and adds a subtle aromatic element.
Carrots: Contributes sweetness, color, and texture, creating a hearty vegetable base.
Celery: Adds freshness and depth to the braising liquid.
Red Wine: Perfect for deglazing, it imbues the dish with complexity and richness.
Beef Broth: The foundation of your braising liquid, it keeps the oxtails moist and flavorful.
Tomato Paste: Enhances the color and adds umami, making every bite more delicious.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme and bay leaves create a fragrant bouquet that merges beautifully with the meat.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the wonderful flavors in your dish.

Variations for Braised Oxtails Recipe

One of the best parts about our Braised Oxtails Recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up.

Different Cut of Meat: Try using short ribs or beef shanks for a new twist while keeping the overall flavor profile similar.
Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a unique herbaceous flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chipotle in adobo for a touch of heat to your braising liquid.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute oxtails with mushrooms or jackfruit, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
Cultural Flavors: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version, or use Mexican spices for a fiesta flair.

Slow-Cooked Elegance: Braised Oxtails Recipe

How to Make Braised Oxtails Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the vegetables. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Sear the Oxtails

In a large Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Season the oxtails with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot pot until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the oxtails are browned, remove them from the pot and add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. This enhances the flavor of your braising liquid. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, herbs, and the seared oxtails. Make sure the meat is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Step 6: Braise

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let the oxtails braise for at least 3 hours until they are tender and the meat is falling off the bone. You can also do this in an oven set at 300°F (150°C).

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the oxtails and strain the sauce if desired. Serve the dish warm, spooning the sauce over the oxtails for an extra layer of flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Braised Oxtails Recipe

Don’t Rush It: The secret to tender oxtails is the slow cooking process, so take your time to fully develop the flavors.
Fat Removal: If you prefer a leaner dish, you can skim off excess fat before serving.
Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality oxtails and fresh herbs for the best results and flavors.
Flavor Boost: Let the braised dish sit overnight; it will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Use a Slow Cooker: For a hands-off approach, feel free to use a slow cooker after searing the meat.

How to Serve Braised Oxtails Recipe

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or scallions over your oxtails just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also fresh flavor that lifts the dish.

Side Dishes

Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. Roasted vegetables or a vibrant green salad can balance the meal wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the braised oxtails in a rustic pot for a family-style meal or on individual plates with a drizzle of sauce to impress your guests at a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the braised oxtails. Let them cool completely, then place them in resealable freezer bags or containers. They will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the oxtails in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of beef broth can help revive the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute with other cuts like short ribs or beef cheeks for a similar taste experience while still maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How long can I store braised oxtails in the fridge?

Cooked braised oxtails can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Always check for any changes in smell or appearance before consuming leftovers.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version using hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or jackfruit, along with a flavorful broth for braising.

What can I serve with braised oxtails?

Mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread make great accompaniments, as they help soak up the delicious sauce from the dish.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, braised oxtails benefit from being made ahead of time. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully when stored overnight.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait any longer! Dive into this incredible Braised Oxtails Recipe and experience the rich, comforting flavors yourself. Your family and friends will thank you for creating such a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Braised Oxtails Recipe

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Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Braising
Cuisine: American
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in our rich and flavorful Braised Oxtails Recipe, a perfect comfort food that warms your soul with hearty, tender meat. This dish brings together deep flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth experience, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the vegetables. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Sear the Oxtails: In a large Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Season the oxtails with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot pot until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the dish.
Sauté the Vegetables: Once the oxtails are browned, remove them from the pot and add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Deglaze with Red Wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits. This enhances the flavor of your braising liquid. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, herbs, and the seared oxtails. Make sure the meat is mostly submerged in the liquid.
Braise: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let the oxtails braise for at least 3 hours until they are tender and the meat is falling off the bone. You can also do this in an oven set at 300°F (150°C).
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the oxtails and strain the sauce if desired. Serve the dish warm, spooning the sauce over the oxtails for an extra layer of flavors.

Notes

Don’t Rush It: The secret to tender oxtails is the slow cooking process, so take your time to fully develop the flavors.
Fat Removal: If you prefer a leaner dish, you can skim off excess fat before serving.
Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality oxtails and fresh herbs for the best results and flavors.
Flavor Boost: Let the braised dish sit overnight; it will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Use a Slow Cooker: For a hands-off approach, feel free to use a slow cooker after searing the meat.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Variations for Braised Oxtails Recipe