Instructions
Prepare the Oxtails:
Rinse the oxtails under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Brown the Oxtails:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the oxtails to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the oxtails and set them aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, incorporating any flavorful browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Combine and Cook:
Return the browned oxtails to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a lid.
Slow Cook:
You have a few options for cooking:
Stovetop: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 3-4 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the meat easily falls off the bone.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and place the covered pot in the oven for about 3-4 hours.
Slow Cooker: Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender.
Finish and Serve:
Once the oxtails are tender, remove them from the pot and set aside. If desired, you can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve the oxtails hot, spooning the rich sauce and vegetables over them. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Oxtails are delicious served over:
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of the oxtails pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes.
Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
Polenta: For a comforting Italian twist, serve oxtails over soft polenta.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as they sit.
Freezer: You can freeze oxtails in their sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Oxtails Recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. With its tender meat and rich sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a touch of culinary sophistication. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of creating this delicious meal!
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