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Few dishes bring warmth, depth, and comfort to the table quite like Jamaican Oxtail Stew. Known for its fall-off-the-bone tenderness, gelatin-rich broth, and deep savory profile, this dish is a Caribbean staple that has traveled the world. Whether enjoyed with rice and peas, mashed potatoes, or even a wedge of soft cornbread, this stew is the ultimate soul food experience.
What Is Oxtail Stew?
Oxtail refers to the tail of cattle, trimmed and sliced into thick cross-sections. It’s a bone-in cut rich in collagen and marrow, which turns into a velvety texture after slow cooking. This makes it ideal for stews, where the long simmering time transforms the tough meat into a succulent, flavorful delight.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2.5 pounds of oxtail, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
- 1 tablespoon brown sauce (optional but traditional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 sprigs thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 stalks scallions, chopped
- 1 small hot pepper, pierced but left whole to control heat level
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups tender-cooked white beans (such as navy beans or Great Northern beans), well-drained
- 4 cups beef stock or flavorful homemade broth
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions
1. Season and Rest the Oxtail Stew
In a mixing bowl, combine the oxtail with salt, pepper, paprika, and all-purpose seasoning. Toss well until each piece is evenly coated. For best results, let the meat sit covered in the refrigerator for a minimum of 90 minutes. Letting it rest overnight will enhance the flavor even more.
2. Sear the Meat
In a large Dutch oven or deep pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the oxtail in batches, browning each side thoroughly. This process adds deep flavor to the final dish and is worth doing patiently.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Once the meat is seared and set aside, lower the heat slightly. Add onions, garlic, thyme, scallions, and the whole, pierced hot pepper. Cook for a few minutes until aromatic and slightly caramelized.
4. Build the Stew Base
Add the tomato paste, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Stir thoroughly to create a flavorful base, then pour in roughly one cup of broth, scraping along the bottom of the pot to lift any stuck bits and integrate all the seasoning.
5. Simmer the Oxtail Stew
Place the seared oxtail back into the pot. Slowly add the remaining broth until most of the meat is covered. Bring to a steady simmer and reduce the heat. Cover the pot and allow it to cook gently for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat becomes soft enough to pull apart with a fork.
6. Add the Beans and Finish Cooking
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the drained beans to the stew. Let the pot simmer uncovered during the final stage to allow the liquid to reduce into a thick, rich sauce.
What to Serve With Oxtail Stew
This stew pairs beautifully with both traditional and modern sides. A few recommendations include:
- Ultimate mashed potatoes – Their soft, buttery consistency complements the robust, savory flavors of the stew.
- Best cornbread recipe – Excellent for soaking up every last drop of gravy.
- Southern-style green beans – Add a crisp, refreshing balance to the meal.
- Steamed white rice or Jamaican rice and peas – A must-have for a traditional Caribbean experience.
Storage and Leftovers
- Chill leftovers in a sealed glass or plastic container and consume within 3 days for the best taste and texture.
- To freeze, allow the stew to cool completely, then portion into airtight containers and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to revive the stew’s saucy consistency.
If you are a fan of high-protein meals, you might enjoy Garlic Butter Mushroom Chicken for a rich and satisfying dinner.
Tips for Success
- Make time for searing each piece of oxtail thoroughly—this initial step sets the foundation for bold, developed flavor.
- Homemade beef stock can take your stew from great to exceptional.
- Let the stew rest, uncovered, for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to naturally thicken before serving.
- For more recipes with bold flavors, check out the Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes Skillet for an easy one-pan meal idea.
Final Thoughts
This dish, Oxtail Stew, is more than just a meal — it’s a rich expression of Caribbean culinary heritage, blending depth, spice, and tradition into every bite. Whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed in solitude on a cozy evening, this stew promises comfort and satisfaction.