Oxtail is a highly versatile cut of meat that can be used to create a wide variety of dishes. It is a flavorful and nutritious part of the cow that is often slow-cooked to achieve a tender and juicy texture. The oxtail can be prepared in a variety of ways and is a great ingredient to work with in the kitchen. In this article, we will discuss how to cook oxtails and some of the frequently asked questions that people have about how to prepare this great cut of meat.
The first step in cooking oxtails is to choose the right meat. You want to look for meat that has a good amount of fat and connective tissue, as this will help to keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process. It is also important to choose meat that is fresh and of good quality. If you are unsure about the quality of the meat, ask your butcher for advice.
Once you have selected your oxtails, you need to decide on the method of cooking. Oxtails can be cooked on the stove, in the oven, or in a slow cooker. Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to cook the meat low and slow in order to break down the connective tissue and create a tender and flavorful dish.
How to Cook Oxtails on the Stove
Cooking oxtails on the stove is a simple and straightforward method. To start, season the oxtails with salt and pepper and set them aside. Next, heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the oxtails and cook them until they are browned on all sides.
Once the oxtails are browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside. Add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened. Then, add tomato paste, beef broth, red wine, and herbs and stir well. Add the oxtails back into the pot, cover with a lid, and allow to simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the sauce has thickened.
How to Cook Oxtails in the Oven
To cook oxtails in the oven, preheat your oven to 325°F. Then, season the oxtails with salt and pepper and set them aside. Next, heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the oxtails and cook them until they are browned on all sides.
Once the oxtails are browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside. Add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened. Then, add tomato paste, beef broth, red wine, and herbs and stir well. Add the oxtails back into the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer the pot to the oven. Allow to cook for 2-3 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the sauce has thickened.
How to Cook Oxtails in a Slow Cooker
To cook oxtails in a slow cooker, season the oxtails with salt and pepper and set them aside. Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a few tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the oxtails and cook them until they are browned on all sides.
Once the oxtails are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Add onions, carrots, and garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened. Then, add tomato paste, beef broth, red wine, and herbs and stir well. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, add the oxtails, and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I serve with oxtails?
A: Oxtails are a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Some popular sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and rice.
Q: How long should I cook oxtails?
A: Oxtails should be cooked low and slow in order to achieve a tender and flavorful texture. Depending on the method you choose, oxtails should be cooked for 2-3 hours on the stove or in the oven, or for 6-8 hours in a slow cooker.
Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover oxtails?
A: Leftover oxtails can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove. To reheat on the stove, add the oxtails and sauce to a pot and heat over medium-low heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze leftover oxtails?
A: Yes, leftover oxtails can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply transfer the cooled oxtails to an airtight container and freeze until ready to use.
Q: Can I use oxtails in other recipes besides soup?
A: Yes, oxtails are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are great for stews, casseroles, and even tacos or sandwiches.
