Description
Rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful, Simple Stovetop Oxtails are the ultimate comfort food. Slow-simmered to fall-off-the-bone perfection with aromatic spices and wholesome vegetables, this one-pot dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds oxtails (cut into segments)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prep the Oxtails
- Season oxtails generously with salt and pepper.
Brown the Oxtails
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtails on all sides (8-10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Build the Broth
- Pour in beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the pot.
Simmer the Oxtails
- Return oxtails to the pot, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer covered for 2-3 hours until tender.
Final Touches
- Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Browning the oxtails enhances the flavor.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution.
- Skim excess fat during cooking for a cleaner broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food