Oxtails are a flavorful, rich cut of beef that, when cooked properly, become tender and melt in your mouth. Cooking oxtails on the stove might seem intimidating because they require slow, low heat to break down the tough connective tissue. But with the right technique, you can make a hearty, comforting meal right on your stovetop without needing special gadgets like slow cookers or pressure cookers.
Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide on how to cook oxtails on the stove, including a full recipe that will have your family asking for seconds!
Why Cook Oxtails on the Stove?
– Flavorful and tender: Slow simmering on the stove allows the meat to become incredibly tender and soak up all the delicious seasonings.
– No special equipment needed: If you don’t have a slow cooker or Instant Pot, the stovetop method is perfect.
– One-pot meal: You can make a complete stew in one pot, minimizing cleanup.
– Customizable: You can add your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 3 lbs oxtails, fat trimmed
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 teaspoons herbs de Provence (a mix of rosemary, thyme, fennel, basil, etc.)
– 2 ½ teaspoons seasoning salt
– 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
– 1 ½ teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
– 1 large yellow onion, chopped
– 6-8 cloves garlic, peeled
– 3 bay leaves
– 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 48 oz beef broth (about 6 cups)
– 3 tablespoons browning sauce (for color and depth of flavor)
– 5 large carrots, peeled and chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Oxtails on the Stove
1. Trim and Season the Oxtails
Start by trimming excess fat from the oxtails to avoid a greasy stew. Place the oxtails in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning salt, herbs de Provence, black pepper, and red pepper flakes over the meat. Toss well so every piece is coated with oil and spices.
2. Brown the Oxtails
Heat a large, deep pot or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oxtails in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown them on all sides until they develop a rich, caramelized crust. This step adds incredible depth of flavor.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once the oxtails are browned, add the chopped onions to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden and fragrant. Then add the garlic cloves, bay leaves, and fresh thyme sprigs, cooking for another minute to release their aromas.
4. Add Broth and Browning Sauce
Drizzle the browning sauce over the oxtails and stir to coat. Pour in the beef broth, enough to cover the meat. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to low-medium.
5. Simmer Slowly
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the oxtails simmer gently for about 3 ½ hours. Check occasionally to stir and add more broth if needed to keep the meat mostly submerged.
6. Add Carrots
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the chopped carrots to the pot. Stir well, cover, and continue simmering until the carrots are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once done, serve your delicious stovetop oxtails over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered noodles. The rich, flavorful sauce is perfect for soaking up with your sides.
Tips for Perfect Stovetop Oxtails
– Patience is key: Oxtails need slow cooking to become tender, so don’t rush the simmering process.
– Trim the fat: This prevents the stew from becoming too greasy.
– Use fresh herbs: Thyme and bay leaves add wonderful aroma and flavor.
– Browning sauce: This adds a beautiful color and enhances the savory taste.
– Check liquid levels: Keep the oxtails mostly covered in broth to prevent drying out or burning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– It’s a classic comfort food with deep, rich flavors.
– The meat becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
– It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare.
– Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
– You can customize the seasoning to your liking.
Cooking oxtails on the stove is a rewarding experience that results in a hearty, flavorful meal. With simple ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll have tender, savory oxtails that everyone will love. Give this stovetop method a try and enjoy the delicious results!