If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal, oxtail stew is a great option. This rich and flavorful dish is made by slow cooking oxtail, which is the tail of a cow, along with a variety of vegetables and spices. The result is a tender and tasty stew that is perfect for a cold winter night or a special occasion.

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare the oxtail. This involves trimming off any excess fat and seasoning it with salt and pepper. Browning the oxtail in a hot pan will help seal in the flavor and create a delicious caramelized crust.

Once the oxtail is browned, it’s time to add in the vegetables and spices. Carrots, onions, garlic, and bay leaves are commonly used in oxtail stew recipes, but you can also add your own twist by including other vegetables such as potatoes, celery, or parsnips. The vegetables should be sautéed until they are slightly softened and aromatic.

After the vegetables have cooked for a few minutes, it’s time to add in the liquid. Beef stock or broth is usually used to provide a rich and savory base for the stew. You can also add in wine or beer for added depth of flavor. Once the liquid is added, the stew should be brought to a boil and then simmered on low heat for several hours, allowing the oxtail to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

Remember, patience is key when cooking oxtail stew. The longer you let it simmer, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

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Once the oxtail stew is cooked to perfection, it can be served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra pop of flavor. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its delicious taste and comforting aroma.

So why not give oxtail stew a try? With a little time and effort, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, oxtail stew is the perfect choice.

Ingredients for oxtail stew

  • 3 pounds oxtail, cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the oxtail

Before starting the cooking process, it is important to properly prepare the oxtail. Follow these steps to ensure the oxtail is ready for stewing:

1. Trim off any excess fat from the oxtail using a sharp knife.
2. Rinse the oxtail under cold water to remove any impurities.
3. Pat the oxtail dry with paper towels.
4. Season the oxtail with salt and pepper, ensuring that all sides are evenly coated.
5. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat.
6. Add the oxtail to the hot oil and cook until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Remove the browned oxtail from the skillet and set it aside.
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Once the oxtail has been prepared, it is ready to be cooked into a delicious stew. Follow the remaining steps of the recipe to complete the dish.

Cooking the oxtail stew

Once the oxtail has marinated for at least 2 hours, it’s time to start cooking the stew. Here’s how:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat up.

2. Remove the oxtail from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Reserve the marinade for later.

3. Add the oxtail to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. This will help enhance the flavor of the stew.

4. Remove the browned oxtail from the pot and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium-low.

5. In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

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7. Return the oxtail to the pot and pour in the reserved marinade. Add enough beef broth to cover the oxtail completely. If needed, add more water to ensure everything is submerged.

8. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level to ensure it doesn’t evaporate too quickly.

9. Once the oxtail is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the stew.

10. If desired, strain the stew to remove any vegetable chunks and create a smoother consistency. Return the strained liquid to the pot.

11. If the stew is too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with cornstarch and water. In a small bowl, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Slowly pour the slurry into the stew, stirring constantly, until desired thickness is reached.

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12. Return the oxtail to the pot and reheat if necessary. Serve the oxtail stew hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty and delicious meal.

Adding vegetables and herbs

Adding vegetables and herbs to your oxtail stew enhances the flavor and adds nutritional value. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Peel and chop your desired vegetables. Popular choices include carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and potatoes.
  2. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant.
  4. Next, add the carrots and celery and cook for a few more minutes until slightly softened.
  5. If you’re using potatoes, add them to the pot now.
  6. Return the oxtail to the pot and combine everything.
  7. Add your desired herbs and spices. Common choices include bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  8. Pour enough broth or stock to cover the ingredients.
  9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for several hours until the oxtail is tender.
  10. As the stew cooks, the vegetables will release their flavors, creating a rich and hearty dish.
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Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Once the oxtail is tender and the flavors have melded together, your oxtail stew with vegetables and herbs is ready to be enjoyed!

Serving suggestions for oxtail stew

Oxtail stew is a hearty and comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to complement the rich and delicious flavors of the oxtail stew:

1. Mashed Potatoes

There’s nothing like creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful gravy of the oxtail stew. Whether you prefer russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, make sure to whip them up with butter and cream for that extra indulgence.

2. Rice

A simple bed of fluffy steamed rice can be the perfect accompaniment to the oxtail stew. The rice grains will absorb the flavors of the stew and provide a neutral base to complement the richness of the meat.

3. Crusty Bread

For those who enjoy dipping their bread into stews, a loaf of crusty bread is a must-have. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of the bread can be used to soak up the flavorsome broth, making each bite even more satisfying.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, add a wonderful texture and sweetness to the oxtail stew. The caramelized edges of the vegetables provide a nice contrast to the tender meat and rich sauce.

5. Green Salad

A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the oxtail stew. Choose a variety of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, and toss them with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.

6. Red Wine

Oxtail stew pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. Choose a full-bodied red, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, to complement the robust flavors of the stew. The wine’s tannins will help cleanse the palate between bites.

7. Fresh Herbs

To add a pop of freshness and vibrant flavors to the stew, garnish it with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro. These herbs will add a bright contrast to the rich and meaty oxtail stew.

Experiment with these serving suggestions to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal with your homemade oxtail stew. Don’t forget to enjoy it with your favorite company!

Tips and Variations for Oxtail Stew

Once you have mastered the basic oxtail stew recipe, you can start experimenting with different variations and techniques to make it your own. Here are a few tips to help you take your oxtail stew to the next level:

1. Add additional vegetables

In addition to the traditional carrots, onions, and celery, you can add other vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your oxtail stew. Consider adding potatoes, parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms. These vegetables will not only add more depth to the stew but also provide added nutrients.

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2. Infuse additional flavors

Consider adding herbs, spices, or other flavorings to enhance the taste of your oxtail stew. Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and garlic are excellent choices for adding an aromatic note to the stew. Additionally, you can experiment with different spices, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, to give your stew a little kick.

You can also try incorporating red wine or Worcestershire sauce into the stew for a richer and more complex flavor. Just be sure to adjust the other seasonings accordingly if you choose to add these ingredients.

3. Explore cooking techniques

While the stove method works well for oxtail stew, you can also try cooking it in a slow cooker or pressure cooker for even more tender and flavorful results. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together over a longer period, while a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time without sacrificing flavor.

Alternatively, if you prefer a thicker stew, you can remove the oxtails once they are tender and shred the meat before returning it to the pot. This will help thicken the stew and give it a heartier texture.

Remember, cooking is all about personal preference, so don’t hesitate to experiment with these tips and variations to create your perfect oxtail stew.

FAQ

What is oxtail stew?

Oxtail stew is a dish made with oxtail, which is the tail of a cow. It is a flavorful and rich stew that is often slow-cooked to tenderize the meat and develop the flavors.

What ingredients do I need to make oxtail stew on the stove?

To make oxtail stew on the stove, you will need oxtail, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include Worcestershire sauce, flour for dredging the oxtail, and chopped parsley for garnish.

How long does it take to cook oxtail stew on the stove?

Cooking oxtail stew on the stove typically takes about 3 to 4 hours. This includes preparation time and slow cooking to ensure the meat is tender and the flavors are well-developed.

Can I make oxtail stew on the stove without using red wine?

Yes, you can make oxtail stew on the stove without using red wine. Instead of red wine, you can substitute beef broth or water. The red wine adds depth of flavor, but it is not essential to the dish.

What can I serve with oxtail stew?

Oxtail stew pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides complement the rich and hearty flavors of the stew.

Can you tell me how to cook oxtail stew on the stove?

Sure! Here’s a recipe for cooking oxtail stew on the stove:

What ingredients do I need for oxtail stew?

You will need the following ingredients for oxtail stew: oxtail, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, tomato paste, red wine, beef stock, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.