Step 1: Season and Sear the Oxtails
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Season Oxtails: Season the oxtails generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear Oxtails: Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the oxtails on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Saute Aromatics and Vegetables
- Saute Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
- Add Carrots and Celery: Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Flavorings
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute or two to caramelize slightly.
- Deglaze Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Return the seared oxtails to the pot. Pour in the beef broth until the oxtails are mostly submerged. Add bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
Step 4: Braise in the Oven
- Cover and Cook: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the oxtails braise for 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Once the oxtails are done, remove them from the oven. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the broth. Serve the oxtails hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the oxtails with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Rice: Oxtails also pair well with steamed rice, couscous, or polenta.
- Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Tips:
- Trimming Oxtails: Ask your butcher to trim excess fat from the oxtails, or you can do it yourself at home.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, you can omit it or substitute with additional beef broth.
- Make Ahead: Oxtails taste even better the next day, so feel free to make them ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of homemade oxtails with this delicious recipe. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, and sure to become a family favorite.