If you’re craving a dish that embodies comfort, depth, and slow-simmered flavor, this Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe is going to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender, fall-off-the-bone oxtail pieces bathing in a luscious, deeply flavored gravy that’s the perfect blend of hearty beef broth, sweet onions, and a hint of tomato richness. This dish is the ultimate slow-cooked indulgence, teasing your senses with every mouthful and bringing warm, soulful vibes right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this recipe shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the oxtail that brings that unmatchable richness, to the vegetables and seasonings that add layers and balance. Together, they create a slow-cooked masterpiece that feels both rustic and refined.
- 3 lbs oxtail: This is the star of the dish, providing gelatin and flavor as it slowly braises to tender perfection.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down in the gravy.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Brings a subtle earthiness and natural sweetness.
- 3 cups beef broth: The base for your savory gravy, enriching the sauce with meaty undertones.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tang and color that balances the broth beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings for bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Oxtail Pieces
The first and most crucial step is to brown your oxtail thoroughly in a hot pot. This step unlocks deep, caramelized flavors that form the foundation of your rich gravy. Don’t rush it—patience here means a beautiful, flavorful sear.
Step 2: Add Vegetables, Garlic, and Tomato Paste
Once the oxtail has a golden crust, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic. Add the tomato paste and stir it all together, letting the paste cook just enough to mellow its raw edge and blend comfortably with the aromatics.
Step 3: Pour in the Beef Broth and Simmer
Pour your beef broth over the oxtail and vegetables, ensuring everything is nearly submerged. Cover your pot and bring the mixture to a slow simmer. This is where the magic of the Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe happens—letting it gently cook for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is tender and beautifully infused with all those rich flavors.
Step 4: Skim Fat and Season
After simmering, skim off any excess fat from the top of your gravy. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. This final touch is crucial to balance the flavors and give the dish that comforting, hearty finish you’re craving.
How to Serve Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves adds a fresh, herbal note that cuts through the richness of the gravy. A few cracked black peppercorns on top can add a subtle kick and an appealing visual nibble.
Side Dishes
This slow-cooked delight pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up that luxurious gravy. For veggies, think steamed greens or roasted root vegetables that complement without overpowering.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve your oxtail over a bed of buttery polenta or even a savory sweet potato mash for a sweet-and-salty combo. You could also pile the succulent oxtail onto warm, crusty bread to create a rich, unofficial “stew sandwich” experience that’s wildly satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover oxtail in rich savory gravy keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen when rested, making your next meal even more delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When thawed, the sauce may thicken, so just thin with a dash of broth while reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the gravy and tender meat. Add a splash of broth if the sauce looks too thick or sticky, ensuring each bite stays luscious and moist.
FAQs
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! After browning your oxtail and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Slow cooking enhances tenderness even more, making your Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe effortless and rewarding.
Do I need to trim the fat from the oxtail before cooking?
It’s helpful to remove any excessive fat but leaving a little on will melt down during cooking and contribute to the gravy’s richness. You can always skim off the excess fat after cooking for a lighter finish.
Is this dish spicy?
By default, no. This recipe highlights rich, savory flavors without heat. However, if you prefer a little kick, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce when seasoning to personalize the gravy to your taste.
How do I know when the oxtail is fully cooked?
When the meat is tender enough to easily fall off the bone with a fork, it’s perfectly cooked. Slow simmering for 3 to 4 hours usually does the trick, but if the meat still feels tough, allow it extra time for the best results.
Can I substitute beef broth with something else?
While beef broth provides ideal depth, you can substitute with vegetable broth in a pinch. Just know that using beef broth will give you the richest, most authentic slow cooked oxtail in rich savory gravy recipe experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about settling in with a bowl of this Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe. Its tender meat, aromatic vegetables, and silky gravy are like a warm hug on a plate. Give yourself the gift of time and love by making this dish — your taste buds will thank you, and it just might become a beloved family staple.
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Slow Cooked Oxtail in Rich Savory Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Tender, flavorful braised oxtail slowly cooked to perfection in a rich, savory gravy. This classic comfort food features melt-in-your-mouth meat infused with aromatic vegetables and a robust beef broth base, perfect served over mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3 lbs oxtail
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the oxtail: In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown the oxtail pieces over medium-high heat until all sides are golden to develop deep flavor.
- Add vegetables and aromatics: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the browned oxtail, cooking briefly until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste to enhance the richness.
- Add broth and slow cook: Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the oxtail is mostly submerged. Cover the pot and simmer gently over low heat for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
- Skim fat and season: Remove the lid, skim off excess fat from the surface, then season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer uncovered a few minutes to thicken slightly if desired.
- Serve: Serve the slow-cooked oxtail hot over mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting and hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra depth, you can add herbs like thyme or bay leaves during slow cooking.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy.
- Ensure to skim the fat for a lighter final dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: British / Caribbean
