Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

🍲 Smothered Oxtails: A Hearty Holiday Feast 🎄🥂

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. 🌟🥘

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

  • ¼ 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. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté 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.

Notes

🎅 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! 🎄

  • Author: niold.com