Oxtail is a flavorful, hearty cut of meat that becomes incredibly tender when cooked properly. To acquire the best results, preparing oxtail is a process that calls for both time and patience, though. Understanding what is oxtail, is helpful because a long oxtail cooks using several techniques, and there are tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.
Cooking Times for Different Methods
The way you cook oxtail determines its cooking time. The usual times for the most often-used cooking methods are shown here.
Stovetop Braising
Cooking oxtail traditionally has been done on the stovetop by braising. The meat is browned first, then cooked in a liquid, say broth or wine, until it’s soft.
- Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3-4 hours on low heat
A rich, savory meal results from the meat softening and the flavors melding under the long, slow simmer.
Slow Cooker
Cooking oxtail is best done hands-off and conveniently with a slow cooker. The meat browns and is put in the slow cooker with aromatics and liquid.
- Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8-10 hours on low or 5-6 hours on high
This low heat, prolonged cooking time breaks down the collagen, producing tender meat and a delicious sauce.
Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot
A pressure cooker can greatly hasten the cooking process for people pressed for time while still yielding delicate oxtail.
- Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes on high pressure
Though this is fast, the flavors might not develop as profoundly as with slower techniques.
Oven-Braising
Another often-used technique, especially for those seeking consistent heat distributions, is oven-braising. Low-temperature cooking in a covered pot or Dutch oven lets the flavors mingle and the meat soften gradually.
- Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3-4 hours at 300°F (150°C)
Knowing what is oxtail helps for cooking oxtail more easily, oven-braising offers steady heat—perfect for this process. With fall-off-the-bone beef, the lengthy, slow bake in the oven produces a very delicious meal.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Oxtail
Sear the Meat:
Browning the oxtail before simmering gives the taste more layers.
Use Aromatics:
To improve the meal, toss in herbs, spices, onions, and garlic.
Cook Low and Slow:
Long slow cooking periods to tenderize the meat produce the greatest results.
Cooking oxtail takes time—usually between 45 minutes in a pressure cooker and up to ten hours in a slow cooker. Patience and the correct technique will pay off with a rich, tender, tasty dinner worth the wait.