braised oxtails, – recipesshubb

Braised Oxtails

Braised oxtails are the ultimate comfort food—tender, flavorful, and slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or any time you want a meal that’s hearty and satisfying. The long braising process transforms tough oxtail meat into melt-in-your-mouth perfection while infusing a rich, savory sauce that’s ideal over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying oxtails for the first time, this recipe delivers deep flavor with minimal hands-on effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender, fall-off-the-bone meat
Rich, flavorful braising sauce
Minimal prep, hands-off cooking with maximum flavor
Freezes and reheats beautifully
Perfect for hearty meals and family gatherings

Ingredients

3 lbs oxtails, trimmed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup red wine (optional, can use beef broth)
4 cups beef broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for added depth

Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Tongs
Knife and cutting board

Prep Time

Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 3–4 hours
Total time: ~3 hours 30 minutes–4 hours

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Brown Oxtails

Season oxtails generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtails on all sides for 4–5 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—brown in batches if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in red wine (if using) to deglaze, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add Broth and Herbs

Return oxtails to the pot. Add beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Ensure the oxtails are mostly submerged in liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Braise

Cover pot with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 3–4 hours, turning oxtails occasionally. The meat should become tender and fall off the bone easily.

Alternative: Braise in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3–4 hours.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Once the oxtails are tender, remove them from the pot and set aside. Skim off excess fat if desired. Simmer the braising liquid uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken slightly. Return oxtails to the sauce before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles
Pair with roasted root vegetables or sautéed greens
Garnish with chopped parsley for color and freshness

Tips for Perfect Braised Oxtails

Brown meat thoroughly for richer flavor
Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven for even cooking
Cook low and slow—this ensures tender meat
Adjust seasoning at the end—braising liquid reduces and concentrates flavors
Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld

Variations

Jamaican-Style Oxtails: Add allspice, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and soy sauce for a Caribbean twist
Italian Braised Oxtails: Use crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs; serve with polenta or pasta
Red Wine & Mushroom: Add sliced mushrooms and a cup of red wine for earthy depth
Spicy Braised Oxtails: Add chili flakes or cayenne for heat

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container
Reheat gently on stovetop or in oven

A Hearty, Comforting Meal

Braised oxtails are the epitome of comfort food—rich, tender, and full of deep, savory flavors. With minimal hands-on work and hours of slow cooking, this dish rewards patience with melt-in-your-mouth meat and a luxurious sauce. Perfect for family meals, special occasions, or cozy winter dinners, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes–4 hours
Servings: 4–6