Are you craving a hearty, deeply flavorful meal that practically melts in your mouth? Then look no further! This slow-cooked oxtail recipe is the perfect answer for a cozy night in, offering a delicious and surprisingly easy way to enjoy this often-underappreciated cut of beef. Forget complicated techniques – this recipe uses the magic of your crock pot to create tender, succulent oxtails that are perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Prepare for a culinary journey that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple! This is one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs oxtails, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup dry red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Oxtails: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the oxtails in batches until browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in smaller batches to ensure proper browning. Set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
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Combine in the Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your crock pot. Add the browned oxtails, red wine, beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Season generously with salt.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the oxtails are incredibly tender and easily pull apart. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful and tender the oxtails become. This is a fantastic quick dinner idea if you use the high setting!
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the bay leaves. You can either serve the oxtails directly from the crock pot, or you can shred the meat and thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Tips for the Best Oxtails:
- Choosing Oxtails: Look for oxtails that are firm and bright red in color, free from any discoloration or unpleasant odors.
- Browning is Key: Don't skip the searing step! It adds depth of flavor that you won't get otherwise.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer the oxtails uncovered for a while after cooking. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) to thicken it further.
Variations:
- Spicy Oxtails: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Root Vegetable Oxtails: Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and texture.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, sage, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on serving size and added sides)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This healthy meal is a delicious and satisfying example of homemade cooking at its best. Enjoy the incredible flavors and tender texture of these slow-cooked oxtails! They're perfect for a comforting and flavorful dinner that's sure to become a family favorite. This is a truly easy and delicious recipe you'll want to try again and again, adding to your collection of best recipes.