1. Season and Sear the Oxtail
Pat the oxtail pieces dry, then season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear the oxtail on all sides until deeply browned—this step builds the foundation of flavor.
Remove the oxtail and set aside.
2. Build the Flavor Base
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
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Add tomato paste, stirring to coat the vegetables and lightly caramelize.
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Simmer 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Add the Oxtail Back In
Return the seared oxtail to the pot.
Add beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
Bring to a simmer.
4. Slow Braise to Tender Perfection
Option 1 — Stovetop: Cover and simmer on low heat for 3–3½ hours.
Option 2 — Oven: Cover and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 3 hours.
Option 3 — Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 8 hours.
You’ll know it’s ready when the meat pulls away effortlessly from the bone.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional but Delicious)
Remove the oxtail pieces and skim excess fat from the surface.
Mix cornstarch and water into a slurry, and stir into the pot.
Simmer until the sauce thickens into a silky gravy.
Return the oxtail to the pot.
Serving Suggestions
Braised oxtail pairs beautifully with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Rice and peas
Buttered noodles
Crusty bread
Polenta
Garlic mashed cassava
For extra comfort, spoon plenty of the rich gravy over the top.
Tips & Variations
For extra richness: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce.
Caribbean-style: Add Scotch bonnet pepper, allspice, and butter beans.
Asian-style: Add ginger, soy sauce, star anise, and Shaoxing wine.
Make-ahead: Chill overnight to remove excess fat and enjoy enhanced flavor.
For thicker gravy: Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
A Dish Worth the Wait
Braised oxtail is the epitome of slow-cooked comfort—deeply savory, incredibly tender, and layered with flavors that only time can create. It’s a dish meant to be savored, shared, and enjoyed with good company. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature comfort dish.
