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Introduction: Oxtail stew is a rich, hearty dish perfect for cozy evenings. This version combines tender, slow-cooked oxtails with carrots, beans, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a flavorful and comforting meal. Whether you serve it with steamed rice or crusty bread, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs oxtail (cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 medium carrots (chopped into disks)
- 1 can butter beans (lima beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2½ cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (whole or seeded, for a spicier kick)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (to thicken sauce if desired)
Instructions:
- Prep and Marinate (Optional):
- Season the oxtails with salt and pepper. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight with thyme, garlic, and oil.
- Brown the Oxtails:
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Brown the oxtail pieces on all sides and set them aside.
- Build the Base:
- In the same pan, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add tomato paste or ketchup, and stir for a minute.
- Cook the Stew:
- Place the browned oxtails, sautéed mixture, carrots, thyme, and bay leaves into a slow cooker or heavy-bottomed pot. Add beef broth and Scotch bonnet pepper (optional).
- For stovetop: Simmer on low heat for 2½ to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. For a slow cooker: Set to low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
- Add Beans:
- During the last hour of cooking, stir in the butter beans.
- Thicken (Optional):
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a little cold water and stir into the pot. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish:
- Discard bay leaves and thyme stems. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve hot with steamed rice or crusty bread.
Conclusion: This oxtail stew is a delightful fusion of tender meat, savory vegetables, and a robust broth. The slow-cooked process ensures deep flavors, making it a must-try for any stew enthusiast. Pair with a hearty side dish, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic recipe.
For more details, visit the full recipe