Jamaican Oxtail

Jamaican Oxtail is a beloved comfort dish known for its rich flavors and tender meat. This hearty stew is a true reflection of Jamaican culinary culture, combining a variety of vibrant ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering experience. As the oxtail simmers slowly, it absorbs the aromatic spices and vegetables, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and enjoyable.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 450
• Protein: 35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Jamaican Oxtail

Making Jamaican Oxtail is not just about feeding yourself or your loved ones; it’s about indulging in a dish that tells a story. The slow-cooked oxtail becomes incredibly tender, allowing the meat to fall off the bone with ease. The addition of allspice and thyme creates a warm spice profile that envelops the stew, while the kidney beans add a nutritional punch and delightful texture. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings, special occasions, or a comforting weeknight meal, making everyone feel satisfied and happy.

How to Make Jamaican Oxtail

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to Jamaica with this easy-to-follow recipe. Your kitchen will fill with the amazing aromas of braised oxtail and spices, bringing a taste of the Caribbean right to your home.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs oxtail
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 tablespoon allspice
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• Step 1: Browning the Oxtail

  Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides, creating a nice crust. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.

• Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

  In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

• Step 3: Mixing the Vegetables and Spices

  Add the thyme, allspice, chopped carrots, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir everything for a few minutes to coat the vegetables with the wonderful spices.

• Step 4: Cooking the Oxtail Stew

  Return the browned oxtails to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours until the oxtail is fall-off-the-bone tender. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

How to Serve Jamaican Oxtail

Jamaican Oxtail is best served hot, often accompanied by rice and peas or fresh bread to soak up the flavorful gravy. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. It’s a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

How to Store Jamaican Oxtail

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing the oxtail stew; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Expert Tips for Perfect Jamaican Oxtail

• For the best flavor, let the oxtails marinate for a few hours or overnight with salt, pepper, and allspice before cooking.
• If you’re short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to significantly reduce cooking time while still achieving tender, flavorful meat.
• Experiment with the vegetables by adding potatoes or different types of beans for added flavor and texture.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end of cooking to ensure the perfect balance.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Oxtail Stew: Add a slice of Scotch bonnet pepper for a kick of heat.
• Caribbean-Style: Incorporate coconut milk for a creamier texture and a hint of sweetness.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute oxtail with jackfruit for a plant-based version that still carries the essence of Jamaican flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different cut of meat?
  While oxtail is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can use beef shank or chuck as alternatives. They may not be as tender but will still yield delicious results.

• Can I make this in advance?
  Yes! The flavors deepen significantly after sitting for a day, making it even more delicious. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

• What can I serve with Jamaican Oxtail?
  Common sides include rice and peas, steamed vegetables, or fried plantains, which complement the richness of the oxtail stew nicely.

• How do I know when the oxtail is done?
  The oxtail is done when it becomes fork-tender and the meat easily separates from the bone.

• How spicy is Jamaican Oxtail?
  This recipe is not inherently spicy, but feel free to adjust the heat by adding spicy peppers or hot sauce according to your preference.

Conclusion

Jamaican Oxtail is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s bound to be a hit among family and friends. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create your own delicious pot of Jamaican Oxtail. Enjoy the process and savor the delightful aromas that will fill your kitchen—happy cooking!

Jamaican Oxtail

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• Author: hannah-belssy
• Total Time: 195
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A beloved comfort dish known for its rich flavors and tender meat, this hearty stew reflects Jamaican culinary culture.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs oxtail
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 tablespoon allspice
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add thyme, allspice, chopped carrots, and bell pepper. Stir everything to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Return the browned oxtails to the pot, pour in beef broth, and add kidney beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the oxtail is tender. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, let the oxtails marinate for a few hours with salt, pepper, and allspice before cooking.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 180
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Jamaican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 90mg