Are you craving a truly comforting and flavorful meal? Look no further than this Candy Red Oxtails recipe! This dish is surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers incredibly rich and tender oxtails with a sweet and savory glaze that's simply irresistible. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the best elements of homemade cooking with a touch of sophisticated flair. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and relatively quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs oxtails, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground thyme
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Oxtails: Season oxtails generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear oxtails in batches until nicely browned on all sides. Remove oxtails from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the oxtails to the pot. Add diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, allspice, thyme, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until oxtails are incredibly tender and easily fall off the bone. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful the oxtails become.
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Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the oxtails and increase the heat to medium. Simmer the sauce uncovered until it reduces to your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Return the oxtails to the sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Candy Red Oxtails:
- Browning is Key: Properly browning the oxtails adds depth of flavor to the dish. Don't rush this step!
- Low and Slow: Simmering the oxtails on low heat allows the meat to become incredibly tender. Patience is rewarded here!
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount accordingly.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Variations:
- Caribbean Flair: Add a splash of dark rum or coconut milk for a Caribbean twist.
- Citrus Zest: A little orange or lime zest adds brightness to the sauce.
- Root Vegetables: Include carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient quantities. However, this dish is a good source of protein and iron, thanks to the oxtails.
This Candy Red Oxtails recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and enjoyable. It's a great way to explore the world of oxtail dishes and create a truly memorable meal. Enjoy!