Oxtail Stew Recipe: A Flavorful Classic for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare, this Oxtail Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender, slow-cooked meat and hearty vegetables, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners or special gatherings.

I remember the first time I made oxtail stew—it smelled so good as it simmered that the whole family kept sneaking into the kitchen to “check on it.” The result was worth the wait: fall-off-the-bone tender meat and a rich, savory broth. Now it’s one of my go-to recipes for cozy nights or when I want to impress guests with a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make.

Let’s dive into the recipe, and I’ll share my tips for making this stew absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Oxtail Stew Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The slow cooking process extracts maximum flavor from the oxtails and creates a luscious broth.
• Family-Friendly: Hearty vegetables like carrots and potatoes make this a complete meal everyone will love.
• Approachable for All Levels: Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is simple to follow.
• Customizable: Use red wine for depth or pomegranate juice for a non-alcoholic twist.

Ingredients for Oxtail Stew Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious, hearty stew:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef oxtails
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Broth:

• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 cups broth (chicken or beef)
• 1 cup red wine (or pomegranate juice for a non-alcoholic option)

Vegetables and Thickening:

• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 2 cups diced gold potatoes
• 1 tbsp tapioca flour (or cornstarch)

How to Make Oxtail Stew

1. Season and Sear the Oxtails

1. Season the oxtails generously on both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the oxtails and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Why Searing is Important: This step locks in the juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the stew.

2. Build the Flavorful Base

1. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Pour in the broth and red wine (or pomegranate juice) to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and cook on low heat for 2 hours.

Pro Tip: Check the liquid level occasionally and add more broth if needed to keep the oxtails partially submerged.

3. Add the Vegetables

1. After 2 hours, stir in the chopped carrots and diced potatoes.
2. Cover and continue simmering for another 2 hours, or until the vegetables and meat are tender.

4. Thicken the Stew

1. Remove ¼ cup of the broth from the pot and mix it with the tapioca flour in a small bowl to create a slurry.
2. Pour the slurry back into the pot, stirring well to thicken the broth.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bones from the meat (optional, but makes serving easier).
2. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.

Tips for Perfect Oxtail Stew

• Choose Quality Oxtails: Look for fresh, meaty oxtails for the best results.
• Low and Slow Cooking: This method breaks down the connective tissue, making the meat tender and the broth rich.
• Substitute Red Wine: If you’re not using wine, pomegranate juice is a great alternative that adds depth and slight sweetness.
• Adjust Consistency: If the stew is too thick, add a splash of broth to thin it out.

What to Serve with Oxtail Stew

This stew is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Steamed Rice: A classic choice that complements the stew’s richness.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the dish.

Looking for more comforting dishes? Try these:

• Hearty Soup Recipes: Warm, satisfying soups to pair with your stew.
• Sinigang Recipe: A Filipino stew with a tangy twist.
• Mexican Birria Recipe: A bold, spiced stew that’s perfect for dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to clean oxtails?
Rinse them under cold water and pat dry. Some people soak oxtails in vinegar water for 30 minutes to remove impurities.

How long does it take for oxtails to get tender?
Oxtails typically take 4-5 hours of slow simmering to become fall-off-the-bone tender.

Why do you have to brown the meat before boiling it?
Browning adds a caramelized crust that enhances the stew’s flavor and richness.

Can oxtails be cooked without wine?
Yes! Pomegranate juice or even grape juice can be used as a flavorful substitute.

What to serve with oxtail stew?
Crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes are excellent options to pair with the rich broth.

Final Thoughts

This Oxtail Stew Recipe is the definition of comfort food. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas, warms your soul, and brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

I’d love to hear how your oxtail stew turned out! Share your photos or tag me on Facebook.

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