easy slow cooker oxtail recipe

Growing up, I loved the rich, hearty meals my family enjoyed. The slow cooker oxtail recipe reminds me of those cozy kitchen moments. It’s about tender meat and deep flavors that tell stories of tradition and love.

Oxtail has become a gourmet favorite, loved in Caribbean and Southern cuisines. This easy oxtail in slow cooker recipe beef makes it easy to get restaurant-quality food at home. It’s all about minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe will change your comfort food game. The slow cooking makes every bite tender and full of flavor.

Key Takeaways

Discover an authentic slow cooker oxtail recipe
Learn traditional Caribbean cooking techniques
Minimal preparation, maximum flavor
Perfect for home cooks of all skill levels
A versatile dish that serves 4 people

Essential Ingredients and Preparation Steps

Making a tasty oxtail recipe in a slow cooker needs the right ingredients and prep. I’ll show you what you need to make your oxtail dish delicious.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Oxtails

For a top-notch oxtail recipe, you’ll need these ingredients:

3 pounds high-quality oxtails
1 large onion, chopped
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup red wine
3 cups beef stock
5 tablespoons tomato paste
Fresh herbs: 2 sprigs thyme, 2 sprigs rosemary
2 bay leaves
4 medium carrots, chopped
2 celery ribs, diced

Preparation Method

Here’s how to prepare a simple oxtail recipe for a slow cooker:

Trim excess fat from oxtails
Season meat with salt and pepper
Brown oxtails in a skillet for enhanced flavor
Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant
Deglaze pan with red wine
Transfer all ingredients to slow cooker

My method for cooking oxtail in a slow cooker makes the meat tender and flavorful. It’s all about patience and proper prep.

Pro tip: Marinate oxtails overnight for an extra flavor boost when preparing your recipe for oxtail in a slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Oxtail Cooking Process

Making the perfect slow cooker oxtail recipe needs patience and care. It turns tough oxtails into tender meat. This is done through a controlled cooking process.

Timing is key when cooking oxtails in a slow cooker. Here’s what I recommend:

Low heat setting: 8-10 hours
High heat setting: 4-6 hours
Recommended oxtail weight: 2.5 lbs

The slow cooker method breaks down tough tissues. This makes the meat incredibly tender. I find a 7-quart slow cooker works best.

Cooking Parameter	Specification
Prep Time	15 minutes
Total Cooking Time	8 hours 25 minutes
Servings	6 people

For the tenderest results, marinate the oxtails overnight. Layer ingredients in the slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and flavor.

Garlic cloves: 4 (2 for marinade, 2 for stew)
Thyme sprigs: 4
Bay leaves: 4
Green onions: 4 sprigs

Pro tip: Use 2 teaspoons of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Add an extra teaspoon for a thicker sauce.

Conclusion

My easy slow cooker oxtail recipe turns a simple cut of beef into a rich, delicious comfort food. It’s a go-to in my kitchen. This recipe shows that with little effort, you can make a top-notch oxtail stew that’s both affordable and satisfying.

This dish is incredibly versatile. I enjoy serving the tender oxtails over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or in hearty tacos. It’s not just tasty but also very nutritious, full of protein, iron, and zinc.

Storing leftovers is easy with this recipe. You can keep the stew in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. This ensures you always have a tasty meal ready. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

I encourage you to try slow cooking and see how amazing this dish is. Your taste buds and dinner guests will love it!

FAQ

What are oxtails, and why are they great for slow cooking?

Oxtails are a flavorful cut of beef from the cow’s tail. They’re perfect for slow cooking because they have lots of connective tissue. This tissue breaks down during long cooking, making the meat tender and rich.The slow cooker turns these tough cuts into a dish that’s soft and full of flavor.

How long does it typically take to cook oxtails in a slow cooker?

Cooking oxtails in a slow cooker takes 8 to 10 hours on low heat. Or, it’s 4 to 6 hours on high heat. This long cooking time makes the meat tender and adds deep flavor.

Can I prepare oxtails ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Oxtails taste better when made ahead. Cook them a day or two before serving. This lets the flavors mix and get even better.Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

What are the best sides to serve with slow cooker oxtails?

Oxtails go great with many sides that soak up the gravy. Try rice, mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or roasted root vegetables. Crusty bread is also a good choice.Caribbean-style rice and peas or Southern-style sides are perfect too.

Are there any tips for getting the most flavor from my oxtail recipe?

To get the best flavor, brown the oxtails before slow cooking. This step, called Maillard reaction, adds depth to the flavor. Use quality beef broth and add herbs and spices.Also, let them cook for a long time to enhance the taste.

Can I freeze slow cooker oxtails?

Yes, you can freeze oxtails well. Cool them down, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

Are oxtails a healthy meat option?

Oxtails are high in fat but also rich in protein, iron, and nutrients. They have collagen, which is good for joints. But, eat them in moderation due to their fat content.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! An Instant Pot can cook oxtails faster. Cook for 45-60 minutes under pressure, then let it release naturally. The meat will be tender, though slow cooking might make it more flavorful.

What if I can’t find oxtails at my local grocery store?

If you can’t find oxtails, use beef short ribs or beef chuck roast instead. These cuts break down well during slow cooking. Look at specialty butcher shops or ethnic grocery stores. Or, ask your local butcher to order them for you.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when cooking oxtails?

Avoid not browning the meat, using too little seasoning, and not cooking long enough. Brown the meat first, use plenty of seasoning, and let it cook for a long time. This ensures tender meat and rich flavor.