Step-by-Step Instructions

 Prep the Oxtail

Pat the oxtail pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

 Brown the Meat

In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the oxtail pieces until browned on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

 Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add diced red onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

 Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, and thyme. Stir well to coat the onions. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

 Simmer Low & Slow

Return oxtail pieces to the pot. Add bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 3 to 3½ hours — until oxtail is incredibly tender and the sauce is rich and thickened.

TIP: You can also use a slow cooker — cook on low for 8 hours.

 Garnish & Serve

Discard bay leaves. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy!

Expert Tips & Variations

 Degrease if needed — For a leaner sauce, skim off excess fat after cooking.
 Add veggies — Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor.
 Spicy version — Add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chili for heat.
 Wine boost — Swap ½ cup of broth for red wine for deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Classic: With creamy mashed potatoes
Comforting: Over buttered egg noodles
Rustic: With crusty artisan bread
Caribbean-style: With steamed white rice and plantains

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for the best oxtail recipe, this is the one to try! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, packed with soul-satisfying flavors. Once you master this dish, it will become a staple in your home kitchen.

Ready to wow your family?
Cook up this Most Tender Oxtail Ever and let us know how it turned out!