If you’re searching for the perfect comfort food, this slow-cooked braised oxtails recipe is a must-try. Rich, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender, oxtail stew is a dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special family meals. With deep, savory flavors developed over a slow simmer, this beef oxtail recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs oxtails, trimmed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
Directions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Oxtails
Start by seasoning your oxtails generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the oxtails and sear them on all sides until they are golden brown, about 10 minutes. This step locks in the flavor. Remove the oxtails and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Sauté the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. This builds the base of your flavorful stew.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Simmer
Return the seared oxtails to the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Add the beef broth, red wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Stir everything together and bring the pot to a boil.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the stew to simmer for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking process is key to tenderizing the oxtails. Stir occasionally, ensuring the meat remains submerged in the flavorful broth. The oxtails are done when the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Let the vegetables soften and soak up the rich flavors of the stew as it continues to simmer.
Step 6: Serve
Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the stew. Ladle the braised oxtails along with the broth and vegetables into bowls. This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Cooking Time and Nutrition
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Calories: 560 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Conclusion
This slow-cooked braised oxtails recipe is the perfect blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. Pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
