How To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop? Easy, Delicious Recipes

One of the most flavorful and comforting dishes you can make is a hearty stew made with oxtails. And when it comes to cooking this tasty cut of meat, nothing beats the simplicity and flavor achieved by cooking them on your stovetop. If you’ve ever been intimidated by making oxtail dishes at home, have no fear – in this blog post, we’ll show you how to cook oxtails on the stovetop. From which cuts of oxtail to use for best results, down to preparing the right flavorings and seasonings for that perfect finishing dish – we’ll cover all bases so that you feel confident crafting your own delicious concoction in no time. Are you ready? Let’s get started.

What are oxtails and where does it come from?

Oxtails are a cut of meat taken from the tail of an ox. They have long, thick bones and are quite fatty, making them ideal for slow cooking methods such as braising or stewing. Oxtails typically come in two forms – fresh or frozen, although certain specialty butchers may offer pre-cooked oxtail options.

Interesting facts about oxtails

Oxtails were traditionally used to make a stock that was considered quite luxurious and served in restaurants. The meat itself has also been known to be served in high-end meals, as it’s incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked properly. Plus, oxtails are quite economical – you don’t need too much of the cut to serve a meal for several people.

What does oxtail taste like?

Oxtail has a robust, beefy flavor that’s quite unique and packs a punch even when cooked slowly. It also has a slightly sweet note due to its fat content, which gives the meat a richness and depth of flavor.

Nutritional benefits of eating oxtail

Oxtails are an excellent source of protein, iron, zinc and vitamin B12. Plus, they contain a fair amount of fat – mostly in the form of monounsaturated fats that can help keep your cholesterol levels in check. The bones also provide essential minerals and nutrients such as magnesium, potassium and calcium.

How to select the best quality oxtail for maximum flavor?

When selecting oxtails, look for ones that are firm and have a nice deep red hue. Avoid any with yellowish or greyish tints – this indicates the meat is either spoiling or has been frozen for too long. If possible, smell the oxtail before buying it to make sure there isn’t an off-putting odor.

Once you’ve selected your oxtail, make sure to trim off any excess fat before cooking. Pre-cooked oxtails will require less time in the pot, so it’s best to look for these if you’re short on time.

Can you cook oxtail on the Stovetop?

Yes, cooking oxtails on the stovetop is a delicious way to enjoy this cut of meat. The key is to simmer it slowly in liquid such as stock or broth for several hours until the meat falls off the bones and becomes tender.

How to cook oxtails on the Stovetop?

Now know that you can cook oxtails on the stovetop, let’s dive into the details.

1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Once heated, add your cut oxtails to the pot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika or any other spices you prefer.
3. Brown the oxtails on both sides for 5-10 minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant.
4. Pour in enough liquid to cover the oxtails, and then bring to a low boil before reducing to a low simmer.
5. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the oxtails are tender and falling off the bone.
6. Once cooked, remove the oxtails from the pot and reserve the liquid for later use.

How long do you need to cook oxtails on the Stovetop?

Typically, oxtails need to cook for 2-3 hours on the stovetop in order to become tender. The exact time will depend on your cut of oxtail – if you’re using pre-cooked or frozen options, you may only need an hour or two.

How to tell when the oxtails on the Stovetop are done?

The best way to tell if your oxtail is cooked is to take a fork and try to pull the meat away from the bone. If it comes away easily, then you know it’s done. Another way to test for doneness is by tasting – if the meat has a soft, tender texture with no hint of toughness or grittiness, then you know it’s done.

What type of broth should I use to cook oxtails on the Stovetop?

Any type of broth or stock will work for cooking oxtails. Beef, chicken, vegetable, and even fish broths all work great. If you’re looking for a more flavorful option, try using an aged beef broth as this will impart more depth to the overall dish.

Tips for cooking oxtails on the Stovetop

Now that you know how to cook oxtails on the stovetop, here are a few tips to help make sure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Use aromatic vegetables such as onions and celery to add flavour.
• Add herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary or bay leaves for extra depth of flavor.
• Don’t forget to skim off any excess fat or foam that may form while the oxtails are cooking.
• When simmering, make sure to keep an eye on the liquid level. If it starts to get too low, add a bit more broth or stock as needed.
• Once you remove the oxtails from the pot, don’t discard that delicious liquid – it can be used to make a delicious gravy or sauce.

Serving suggestions for oxtails cooked on the Stovetop

Oxtails cooked on the stovetop are incredibly versatile and can be eaten as is, served with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, or even turned into a hearty stew. They also go great with vegetables such as carrots, peas or green beans. And don’t forget about all that delicious broth – you can use it to make some tasty gravy to serve alongside your oxtail meal.

How to store oxtails cooked on the Stovetop?

Any leftover oxtails should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The broth can also be stored separately in another container – it will keep for up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze both the oxtails and the broth for up to 3 months.

Some recipe using oxtails cooked on the Stovetop

Once you’ve mastered how to cook oxtails on the stovetop, why not try experimenting with different recipes? Here are a few delicious options:

• Oxtail Stew – An easy and savory stew made with cooked oxtails, potatoes, carrots and herbs.
• Oxtail Risotto – A creamy risotto made with cooked oxtails, cheese and herbs.
• Oxtail Soup – A hearty and flavorful soup filled with cooked oxtails, vegetables and spices.
• Oxtail Tacos – A fun twist on tacos made with cooked oxtails, lettuce and salsa.
• Oxtail Pasta – A delicious pasta dish made with cooked oxtails, tomatoes and herbs.
• Oxtail Chili – A comforting chili made with cooked oxtails, beans and spices.
• Oxtail Goulash – A hearty and flavorful goulash made with cooked oxtails, potatoes and vegetables.
• Oxtail Curry – A rich and fragrant curry made with cooked oxtails, coconut milk and spices.
• Oxtail Fajitas – A delicious fajita dish made with cooked oxtails, peppers and onions.

Alternatives to oxtail for people who don’t eat red meat

If you don’t eat red meat but are still looking to enjoy oxtail-style dishes, there are a few alternatives that can be used in place of oxtails.

• Chicken – opt for chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of oxtails.
• Lentils – Cooked lentils can be used to mimic the texture and flavor of oxtail dishes.
• Mushrooms – Portobello mushrooms are a great option for a vegetarian version of oxtail dishes.
• Fish – White fish such as cod or haddock work well for dishes such as oxtail stew or oxtail risotto.
• Eggplant – Roasted eggplant can be used to create vegan versions of oxtail dishes.
• Tempeh – Cooked tempeh makes a great vegan alternative to oxtail dishes.
• Jackfruit – Jackfruit can be used to mimic the texture of oxtail dishes without the meat.
• Tofu – Firm tofu can be used to create a delicious vegetarian version of oxtail dishes.

Conclusion: How to cook oxtails on the Stovetop

Cooking oxtails on the stovetop is easy, and the results are incredibly flavorful. All you need to do is season your oxtail with spices, simmer it in broth until tender, and then let your creativity take over when it comes to serving them up. And if you don’t eat red meat, there are plenty of alternatives that can be used in place of oxtails for a delicious and plant-based meal. So go ahead and give cooking oxtails on the stovetop a try – we promise you won’t regret it.

FAQs Cook oxtails

Do you have to brown oxtails before cooking?

Enhance the flavor by marinating the oxtail for 6 – 8 hours before cooking. Lock in the juices and maximize the taste by browning the meat on both sides. Achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture by cooking the oxtails until they are soft and tender. Elevate the flavors by adding a fresh layer of seasonings.

Should you boil oxtail before cooking?

Boiling oxtail is not a recommended cooking method as it tends to leach out the flavour and natural juices of the meat. For best results, slow cook or braise the oxtail until it is tender and succulent. This will prevent drying out the meat, while sealing in all those delicious umami flavors.

Do you have to brown oxtails before cooking?

By browning the oxtail before cooking, you can achieve a deeper and richer flavor. Not only will it give the dish a more appetizing look, but it also helps lock in all those juicy flavors that make oxtails so irresistible. Just be careful not to overcook the oxtails as this can cause them to dry out quickly.

Why do you soak oxtail before cooking?

Soaking oxtail before cooking helps remove any impurities and excess fat, allowing the flavors to concentrate in the meat. It also breaks down fibers, making it easier to shred when cooked. If you plan on using a slow cooker or pressure cooker for your oxtail dish, be sure to soak the meat overnight as these methods require longer cooking times.

What is the best way to season oxtail when preparing to cook?

When seasoning oxtail, it is best to go with a combination of herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, bay leaves and rosemary. These will bring out the natural flavors of the meat while elevating its taste at the same time. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

How often should oxtails be stirred while cooking on the stovetop?

For best results, stir the oxtails occasionally while they are cooking on the stovetop. This allows you to check for doneness and ensure that all sides of the meat get cooked evenly. You should also be sure to keep an eye on the liquid level and add more broth or stock when needed.

How do you thicken the sauce when cooking oxtails on the stovetop?

To thicken the sauce when cooking oxtails on the stovetop, add a roux or cornstarch slurry to the liquid. This will help give it a thicker and more flavorful consistency. For best results, make sure to stir constantly and avoid boiling as this can break down the starches in the roux or cornstarch slurry.

What can be done to reduce the fat content of oxtails cooked on the stovetop?

After cooking oxtails on the stovetop, you can skim off any excess fat or foam that may have formed while cooking. Additionally, be sure to choose leaner cuts of oxtail and trim off any visible fat before preparing it for the pot. This will help reduce the amount of fat in your dish without compromising its flavor.

Can I cook oxtails in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook oxtails in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop. However, be sure to soak the oxtails overnight prior to cooking them in order to ensure they are tender and succulent when done. Additionally, you may want to brown the oxtail before adding it into the slow cooker for an even richer flavor.

Should I cover the pot when I’m cooking oxtails?

Yes, it is important to cover the pot when cooking oxtails in order to trap in heat and keep moisture levels consistent. This will help ensure that the oxtails cook evenly and prevent them from drying out or burning. Be sure to check on your dish occasionally and adjust the temperature as needed.