This braised oxtail recipe yields tender, flavorful meat that falls right off the bone. The key steps are:

1. Searing the oxtail pieces to develop a nice crust
2. Sautéing the aromatic vegetables
3. Deglazing the pot with red wine
4. Simmering the oxtail low and slow in beef broth until ultra-tender

Oxtail cooking times vary by method:

Slow Cooker/Crockpot: 8-10 hours on low heat Pressure

Cooker/Instant Pot: 45-60 minutes

Braising in Oven: 3-4 hours at 325°F

Stovetop: 2-3 hours simmering

The key is low, slow cooking to tenderize the tough meat. Always ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F for food safety.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. oxtail, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups red wine
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the oxtail pieces generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches if needed, sear the oxtail pieces on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the seared oxtail to a plate.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the red wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Return the seared oxtail pieces to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
9. Bring the liquid to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours. Cook until the meat is very tender and falling off the bone.
10. Remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme stems. Season the braised oxtail with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve the braised oxtail over mashed potatoes, polenta, or wide egg noodles. Enjoy!
12. Modifications:
13. Add some Beans. Add Jerk Seasoning to make them a little spicy. Smoke them on a smoker to give them a whole new flavor profile.