How to cook oxtails on the stovetop? | Our best recipe

Cooking oxtails on the stovetop is an excellent way to create a flavorful and hearty meal that can be quickly prepared. Stovetop cooking allows you to enhance the flavor of these succulent cuts of meat through browning in oil, simmering with various ingredients in a flavorful stock or sauce, and adding fresh vegetables and herbs for extra aroma and flavor. Whether you are using fresh oxtails or thawed from frozen, this method will give you tender pieces of meat when done correctly following some essential steps. Here we will take you through how to cook oxtails on the stovetop so that each bite can be savored with perfect texture and seasoning.

What is the stovetop and how does it work?

The stovetop is an important piece of cookware that allows you to quickly and conveniently prepare a wide variety of foods. A stovetop consists of several components, typically including burners, cooking surfaces, and sometimes even ventilation hoods. The burners provide heat for the food while the cooking surface acts as a base on which dishes can be prepared. Cooking with the stovetop is relatively easy but requires a bit of knowledge to get the best results.

What are the oxtails?

Oxtails are a cut of meat taken from the tail of an ox or cow. They are usually large and can be quite tough, but when cooked correctly they become tender and juicy with lots of flavor. Oxtails have a rich, gamey taste that is enhanced through slow cooking methods such as roasting, braising, and stewing.

Nutrition facts of the oxtails

Here are some nutrition facts about oxtails:

• Calories: 599 (30% of Recommended Daily Allowance/Intake)
• Carbs: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 35g (65% of RDA/RI)
• Fats: 35g (51% of RDA/RI)
• Salt: 0g
• Fibre: 0g

Why do you cook oxtails on the stovetop?

Cooking oxtails on the stovetop is a great way to quickly and easily prepare an incredibly flavorful dish. The intense heat of the stovetop allows you to brown the meat in oil, adding flavor and texture while also searing in its natural juices. Once browned, you can add vegetables and herbs to create a savory sauce or stock that will further enhance the flavor. The stovetop also allows you to easily adjust the heat intensity of the cooking, making it easier to simmer your oxtails until they are perfectly cooked and tender.

How to choose the oxtails for cooking on the stovetop?

When selecting oxtails for cooking on the stovetop, it’s important to choose cuts that are fresh and of good quality. If you are buying frozen oxtails, make sure they are completely thawed before using. Oftentimes, smaller pieces of oxtail will be more tender than large pieces, so keep this in mind when choosing your cuts. Additionally, look for pieces with plenty of fat and connective tissue as this will add flavor and richness to the dish.

Ingredients need to cook oxtails on the stovetop

The exact ingredients you need will depend on the recipe you are using, but some common ingredients include:

• Oxtails
• Oil for browning (canola, vegetable, or olive oil)
• Onion and garlic
• Stock or broth of your choice
• Herbs and spices such as bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper
• Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the oxtails for cooking it on the stovetop

Before you begin cooking, it is important to prepare the oxtails. Begin by washing them thoroughly with cold water and patting dry with paper towels. Next, season the oxtails with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can also sprinkle with herbs or spices of your choice for extra flavor.

How to cook oxtails on the stovetop?

Here are the steps on how to cook oxtails on the stovetop:

1. Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat and add enough oil to generously coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Add the seasoned oxtails to the hot oil and brown them on each side, about 2 minutes per side. This will give them their signature flavor and texture.
3. Once browned, add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the stock or broth of your choice to the skillet along with any additional herbs, spices, vegetables, and seasoning you’d like to use in your dish. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid or foil. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours until oxtails are tender and cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side.

Tips for cooking oxtails on the stovetop perfectly

Here are some tips on how to cook oxtails on the stovetop perfectly in every time:

• Make sure to brown the oxtails well on both sides. This will help to seal in their natural juices and give them a rich, savory flavor.
• Use plenty of seasonings and herbs for added flavor. Oxtails can be quite flavorful when cooked correctly, so don’t be afraid to add a bit of your favorite spices.
• Simmer the oxtails on low heat for a longer period of time. This will ensure that the meat is cooked through and tender every time.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to season with salt and pepper at the end if necessary.
• Serve your oxtails over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side. This will help to absorb all the flavors and juices of the dish and make it even more delicious.

What to serve your oxtails?

Once you have finished cooking your oxtails, there are many delicious sides that will pair perfectly with them. Mashed potatoes and rice both make great accompaniments as they will help to absorb the flavorful juices from the dish. Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and corn can also be added to the skillet along with your oxtails for a nutritious side dish. For added flavor, you can also serve your oxtails with a generous helping of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Additionally, condiments such as hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can be added at the end for an extra kick of flavor.

How to store leftover oxtails?

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store the oxtails and their sauce separately. The oxtails can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion: How to cook oxtails on the stovetop

We hope that this guide has provided you with all the information and tips you need on how to cook oxtails on the stovetop. With a few simple steps, you can easily create an incredibly flavorful dish full of rich, savory flavors. Remember to select fresh cuts of oxtails and season them well for maximum flavor. Simmer over low heat until tender and serve over your favorite side.

FAQ: cooking oxtails on the stovetop

Can you fry oxtail on the stovetop?

Discover the best ways to cook oxtail. Explore 4 different cooking methods: traditional stovetop, slow cooker, pressure cooker, and oven. Unlock the ultimate flavor and tenderness of this delicious dish.

Why are my oxtails on the stovetop not tender?

Trouble achieving tender oxtails on the stovetop? Braising typically requires a temperature of around 200°F (93°C) for the desired tenderness within a reasonable timeframe. If your oxtails haven’t become tender after 5 hours, it’s possible that the low setting on your slow cooker isn’t providing enough heat.

Do you boil oxtail before cooking on the stovetop?

Can you boil oxtail before cooking on the stovetop? Yes, you can. Prior to boiling, it is recommended to soak them in water with a touch of salt. If the oxtail is frozen, using slightly warm water is advisable instead of cold. Once the required soak time is complete, the oxtail should be mostly defrosted, allowing you to proceed with the next cooking steps.

Do you have to soak oxtails before cooking on the stovetop?

Achieve melt-in-your-mouth oxtail perfection on the stovetop with this straightforward method. To ensure tender and flavorful meat, begin by soaking the oxtail in cold water for one hour to eliminate any impurities. Next, transfer it to a pot of fresh water, bring it to a boil, and allow it to gently simmer for a mere 10 minutes. For outstanding results, then proceed to cook the oxtail on low heat for an extended period.

How long does it take for oxtail to soften on the stovetop?

Cook oxtails on the stovetop for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until they are soft and tender. After cooking, set aside 2 cups of broth. Then, heat bacon drippings or shortening in a skillet on medium heat.

Why do you brown oxtails before cooking on the stovetop?

The importance of browning oxtails before cooking on the stovetop. Enhance the flavor of your dish by thoroughly browning the oxtail in hot oil before adding any cooking liquid.

Do you have to clean oxtails before cooking on the stovetop?

Ensure Properly Cleaned Oxtails for Stovetop Cooking. Before proceeding with seasoning and cooking, it is crucial to appropriately clean the oxtails. Cut and trim excessive fat for optimal results.

How do you know when oxtail is done on the stovetop?

How to tell if your stovetop oxtail is perfectly cooked: When the meat is tender, has a jelly-like consistency, and effortlessly falls off the bones.

How long to cook oxtails on the stovetop?

Cooking time for oxtails on the stovetop: Cover and simmer over medium heat until tender, which usually takes 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside 2 cups of broth. In a separate skillet, heat bacon drippings or shortening over medium heat.

What temperature to cook oxtails on the stovetop?

Cooking temperatures for oxtails on the stovetop can vary depending on the method used. For traditional stovetop cooking, use a temperature of around 200°F (93°C). Pressure cooker and slow cooker temperatures will depend on the model you are using so refer to your instruction manual for further guidance