🍲 Christmas Smothered Oxtails: A Hearty Holiday Feast πŸŽ„πŸ₯‚

This Smothered Oxtails recipe is perfect for a cozy, indulgent Christmas dinner! With its rich, tender meat and a luxuriously thickened sauce, this dish brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. The oxtails are slowly braised in red wine, beef broth, and a blend of aromatic herbs, creating a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Each bite is an explosion of taste, with the sauce infusing the meat and veggies with a depth of flavor that makes this a truly unforgettable dish. 🌟πŸ₯˜

As it simmers, the dish fills your kitchen with the fragrant blend of thyme, rosemary, and paprika, setting the mood for a festive gathering. The vibrant colors from the carrots, celery, and fresh parsley bring a holiday touch, while the tender, juicy meat becomes the highlight of the meal. Smothered oxtails are perfect for a special occasion, allowing you to enjoy the company of loved ones as it cooks low and slow to perfection. πŸŽ…

Serve this dish with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery rolls, or even a side of roasted winter vegetables for a complete Christmas feast. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and festive. So, pour a glass of wine, gather around, and savor this holiday masterpiece! πŸŽ‰


πŸŽ„ Smothered Oxtails Recipe 🍲

Servings: 4–6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal


Ingredients

  • 3 lbs oxtails
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season and Brown Oxtails: Generously season the oxtails with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches if necessary, brown the oxtails on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. SautΓ© Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. SautΓ© until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes until it deepens in color.
  4. Simmer with Broth and Wine: Return the oxtails to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, red wine, and add bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Slow-Cook the Oxtails: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and nearly falling off the bone.
  6. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the flour with a bit of water to form a smooth paste. Stir the paste into the simmering pot, letting it cook for an additional 10–15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  7. Adjust Seasoning & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the smothered oxtails hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

πŸŽ… Notes & Variations

  • Wine Substitute: Replace the red wine with additional beef broth if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve over mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice for a complete meal.
  • Vegetable Add-Ins: Add mushrooms or parsnips for extra depth and texture.

These Smothered Oxtails bring comfort, flavor, and a touch of holiday magic to your Christmas dinner. Enjoy every bite with family and friends! πŸŽ„

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