Country Oxtails Dinner Recipe

Few meals bring the same level of comfort and satisfaction as a Country Oxtails Dinner. This slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone dish is packed with rich flavors and tender meat, making it a favorite in Southern and Caribbean cuisine. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttery cornbread, oxtails are a hearty and deeply flavorful dish that brings warmth to any dinner table.

Oxtails were once considered a humble cut of meat, often overlooked in favor of more popular beef cuts. However, due to their incredible flavor and versatility, they have become a cherished ingredient in many cultures around the world. Slow-cooked to perfection, oxtails become incredibly tender, with the rich, gelatinous texture creating a luxurious mouthfeel in every bite. This dish is not just about the meat—it’s about the layers of flavor built through slow simmering, allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

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Ingredients for Country Oxtails

For the Oxtails:

• 3 lbs oxtails, trimmed
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening, if needed)

For Serving:

• Cooked rice or mashed potatoes
• Cornbread or crusty bread
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Oxtails

1. Pat the oxtails dry and season generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the oxtails on all sides (about 3–4 minutes per side), then remove them from the pot and set aside.

Browning the meat properly is crucial as it develops a deep, caramelized crust that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. The fond (brown bits) left in the pan will further intensify the richness of the final dish.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance the richness.

Cooking the tomato paste helps break down its acidity and allows it to blend seamlessly into the sauce. The combination of vegetables and spices creates a well-rounded base that will infuse the oxtails with deep flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Oxtails

1. Return the oxtails to the pot and pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using).
2. Add Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper for extra heat.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and nearly falling off the bone.

During this long simmering process, the connective tissues in the oxtails break down, creating an unctuous, rich sauce that coats every bite. This step requires patience, but the end result is a dish bursting with depth and complexity.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy

1. If needed, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the pot to thicken the sauce.
2. Let it cook for another 10–15 minutes, uncovered, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.

A thick, silky gravy is what makes this dish truly comforting. If you prefer a lighter consistency, you can skip the cornstarch, allowing the sauce to remain slightly brothy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove bay leaves and discard.
2. Serve the oxtails over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes, with cornbread on the side.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing oxtails with a starchy side such as rice or potatoes helps soak up all the delicious sauce, making every bite even more satisfying. Cornbread is another excellent choice, adding a slightly sweet contrast to the savory richness of the dish.

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The History and Cultural Significance of Oxtails

Oxtails have been an integral part of many culinary traditions, from Southern soul food to Caribbean and African cuisines. Historically, oxtails were considered a “peasant food,” as they required long cooking times to become tender. However, over time, they have evolved into a sought-after delicacy due to their incredible taste and texture.

In the American South, oxtails are often braised with hearty vegetables and flavorful seasonings, creating a dish that embodies home-cooked comfort. In Jamaican cuisine, oxtails are prepared with allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, and butter beans for a uniquely spiced and deeply satisfying meal. Across the world, in countries such as Italy and Spain, oxtails are stewed with wine and aromatic herbs for a dish known as coda alla vaccinara.

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Tips for the Best Country Oxtails

• Low and slow is key! Oxtails need a long cooking time to become tender and rich in flavor.
• Don’t rush the browning step. A good sear locks in flavor and adds depth to the dish.
• For extra richness, a splash of heavy cream in the sauce before serving can add a velvety finish.
• Leftovers taste even better! Store in the fridge overnight to let the flavors deepen further.
• Try different spices! You can add a bit of cumin or coriander for a more complex flavor profile.
• Use homemade beef broth for an even richer and more robust taste.
• Add a touch of vinegar or lemon juice at the end to balance the richness with a little acidity.

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Final Thoughts

A Country Oxtails Dinner is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or Sunday suppers with family. The slow-cooked, tender meat and rich, flavorful gravy create an unforgettable dish that’s worth every minute of patience. Cooking oxtails is a labor of love, rewarding you with a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

This meal isn’t just about sustenance—it’s about history, tradition, and the art of slow cooking. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an indulgent meal, this Country Oxtails Dinner will transport you to a world of rich flavors and deep comfort.

So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, take your time, and savor every bite of this classic dish. It’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen!