Jamaican Oxtail Stew

Introduction

Jamaican Oxtail Stew is a rich and hearty dish filled with bold flavors and succulent oxtail meat that falls off the bone. This traditional Jamaican dish is slowly cooked to perfection, blending the unique flavors of the Caribbean with spices and a variety of comforting ingredients. It’s particularly appealing for women above 35, providing a comforting and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs oxtail, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon browning sauce
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 4 cups beef stock
• 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Servings: 6-8

Preparation Steps

1. Season and Brown Oxtails: Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper, then lightly dust them with flour. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot and brown the oxtails on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper until onions are translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the oxtails to the pot. Add thyme, allspice, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in beef broth, ensuring the oxtails are covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
5. Add Carrots and Beans: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add chopped carrots and butter beans. Cook until the carrots are tender.
6. Final Seasoning and Garnish: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with chopped green onions.
7. Serve: Serve hot with a side of cooked rice or beans.

Cooking Notes

• Browning the oxtails is key for developing a deep, rich flavor.
• Be careful with the Scotch bonnet pepper as it is very spicy. Handling it with gloves is advised.
• The stew can be thickened by removing the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking if desired.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Rice and Peas: A classic Jamaican side dish that pairs beautifully with the stew.
2. Over White Rice: For a simpler but equally satisfying meal.
3. With Fried Plantains: Adds a sweet contrast to the savory stew.
4. With Steamed Vegetables: For a lighter, more balanced meal.
5. As Leftovers: The stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Tips

• Slow cooking is essential to tenderize the oxtail and develop flavors.
• This dish can also be cooked in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
• Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper based on your heat preference.

Cooking Times

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 3 hours

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

Storage Advice

1. Cool Down: Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
2. Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
3. Freezing: Can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
4. Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary.
5. Avoiding Freezer Burn: If freezing, make sure the container is sealed well to prevent freezer burn.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, beef or lamb can be substituted, though the flavor and texture will be different.
2. What if I can’t find Scotch bonnet pepper?
   Habanero peppers are a good substitute, or use a milder pepper for less heat.
3. Can I make this dish less fatty?
   Skim off excess fat from the top of the stew before serving.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
   As long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, it should be gluten-free.
5. How do I know when the oxtail is cooked?
   The meat should be very tender and easily come off the bone.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes, potatoes or sweet potatoes can be added for more heartiness.
7. What can I do if my stew is too thin?
   Remove the lid and simmer to reduce and thicken the sauce.
8. Can I cook this in a pressure cooker?
   Yes, pressure cooking will significantly reduce the cooking time.
9. Is it spicy?
   The spice level depends on the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper used.
10. How can I make this dish healthier?
    Use low-sodium broth and lean cuts of meat.

Conclusion

Jamaican Oxtail Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the warmth and vibrancy of Caribbean cuisine. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion and is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.

Vegan Alternative Recipe

Vegan Ingredients

• Mushrooms or jackfruit: as a substitute for oxtails
• Vegetable broth: in place of beef broth
• Soy sauce, allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet pepper, garlic, onions, carrots, butter beans

Vegan Preparation Steps

Follow the same steps as the original recipe, replacing the oxtails with your chosen vegan alternative and using vegetable broth.

Vegetarian Alternative Recipe

The same as the vegan alternative, ensuring all ingredients used are vegetarian.

Kid-Friendly Recipe

Ingredients for Kids

• Use less Scotch bonnet pepper or omit it for less heat.
• Add vegetables like potatoes or sweet peas for extra nutrition.

Preparation Steps for Kids

Follow the original recipe, adjusting the spice level to be kid-friendly and ensuring the stew is rich in flavor but not too spicy.