Easy Oxtail Recipe: A Flavorful and Tender Meal
Oxtail, often overlooked, is a cut of beef that delivers incredible flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow. This easy oxtail recipe requires minimal effort but yields maximum deliciousness, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs oxtail: Look for pieces that are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a sweet base to the rich oxtail flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Provides sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes a subtle earthy flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent and aromatic addition.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Adds depth and richness.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: A classic herb pairing for oxtail.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary: Another excellent herb that complements the beef.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances the overall savory profile.
- 4 cups beef broth: Use a good quality broth for the best flavor.
- 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and depth of flavor. If omitting, add an extra cup of beef broth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously throughout the cooking process.
- Olive oil: For searing the oxtail.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Oxtail:
- Season the oxtail generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the oxtail pieces in batches until nicely browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor. Remove the seared oxtail and set aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmering the Oxtail:
- Return the seared oxtail to the pot.
- Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the oxtail is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more tender it will become. Check occasionally and add a little more broth if needed.
4. Serving Your Delicious Oxtail:
- Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid.
- You can serve the oxtail as is, or you can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Serve the oxtail hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Tips for Success:
- Use a good quality oxtail: The better the quality of the meat, the better the final dish will taste.
- Don't rush the cooking process: Low and slow cooking is key to tender oxtail.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping. The oxtail can be made ahead of time and reheated.
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