How to Cook Oxtails: A Delicious and Nutritious Meal
Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that's also packed with nutrients? Look no further than oxtails! This underrated cut of meat is full of collagen and other beneficial compounds that can improve your skin, hair, and joint health. Plus, it's absolutely delicious when cooked properly.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's go over the ingredients you'll need:
- 2-3 pounds of oxtails
- 1 onion, diced
- 2-3 carrots, sliced
- 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Oxtails
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides, about 8-10 minutes total. Remove the oxtails and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add the Oxtails and Broth
Return the oxtails to the pot. Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Step 4: Simmer the Oxtails
Let the oxtails simmer for 2-3 hours, or until they are tender and falling off the bone. Check the pot occasionally to ensure there is enough liquid to cover the oxtails. If needed, add more broth or water.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the oxtails are cooked to perfection, remove them from the pot and serve them with your choice of sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. Don't forget to spoon some of the delicious sauce on top!
Benefits of Oxtails
In addition to being a tasty meal, oxtails offer a variety of health benefits. As mentioned earlier, they are rich in collagen, which can improve your skin, hair, and joint health. They also contain vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a slow cooker instead of a Dutch oven?
A: Yes, you can definitely use a slow cooker for this recipe. Simply follow the same steps but cook the oxtails on low for 6-8 hours instead of simmering on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze leftover oxtails?
A: Absolutely! Oxtails freeze well and can be reheated later for an easy meal. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the pot?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like potatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Q: What wine pairs well with oxtails?
A: A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah pairs well with oxtails.
Conclusion
There you have it - a delicious and nutritious oxtail recipe that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for your family or a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give it a try!