Oxtail Stew

Here is a simple recipe for preparing oxtail stew:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lbs oxtail (cut into chunks)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped) or 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 4 cups beef broth (or enough to cover the oxtail)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
• 1-2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the oxtail:
   • Rinse the oxtail pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
2. Brown the oxtail:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the oxtail pieces in batches, ensuring they are brown on all sides. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the oxtail and set it aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and softened.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the liquids and spices:
   • Stir in the chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), bay leaves, allspice, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and tomato paste (if using).
   • Return the oxtail to the pot and cover with beef broth. Bring it to a boil.
5. Simmer the stew:
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtail is tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
   • If needed, skim off any excess fat that rises to the surface during cooking.
6. Thicken the stew (optional):
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can make a slurry with 1-2 tablespoons of flour and some cold water. Add it to the stew and stir. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to thicken.
7. Serve:
   • Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy your hearty oxtail stew!