Braised Oxtail Recipe

Braised oxtail — now that’s serious comfort food with deep, rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth meat! Here’s a classic recipe that makes the oxtail tender, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal:

Braised Oxtail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs oxtail, trimmed of excess fat

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with beef broth)

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh)

• 1 teaspoon allspice (optional, for warmth)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep and brown oxtail:
   Season oxtail pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a heavy, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown oxtail on all sides until deep golden (about 8-10 minutes). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté vegetables:
   In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

3. Add tomato paste and deglaze:
   Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce by half (about 5 minutes).

4. Add broth and herbs:
   Return oxtail to the pot. Add beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, and allspice. Bring to a simmer.

5. Braise:
   Cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Braise for 3 to 4 hours until meat is tender and falling off the bone.

6. Finish and serve:
   Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serving suggestions:

Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce.