What is Oxtail? Discover the Surprising Answer and Nutritional Benefits

Oxtail (occasionally spelled ox tail or ox-tail) is the culinary name for the tail of cattle. Formerly, it referred only to the tail of an ox or steer, a castrated male. An oxtail typically weighs 2 to 4 lbs. (1–1.8 kg) and is skinned and cut into short lengths for sale. Oxtail is a bony, gelatin-rich meat, which is usually slow-cooked as a stew or braised. It is a traditional stock base for a soup.

In this article, we’ll explore everything there is to know about this delicious ingredient.

Discovering the Marvels of Oxtail

Oxtail is a meat product that comes from the tail of a cow, so it’s beef. The tail is skinned and cut into smaller pieces, usually around 3.5 kilograms, for sale. While the word “oxtail” originally referred only to the tail of an ox, it now generally refers to the tails of other cattle as well. The tail contains a lot of bone, cartilage, and marrow, which creates a rich and deeply satisfying taste when cooked properly.

Why is Oxtail Worth Trying?

If you love food and are always looking for new and exciting dishes to try, oxtail is definitely worth checking out. Here are some reasons why:

• Oxtail is a relatively low-cost product compared to other cuts of meat, making it a great option for those on a budget.
• Oxtail is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to curries and braises.
• Oxtail is a special product that is not commonly found in most grocery stores, so it creates a sense of novelty and excitement when you do come across it.
• Oxtail is a sign of a skilled cook, as it takes time and effort to properly cook and tenderize the meat.

How Does Oxtail Taste?

Oxtail has a unique taste that is hard to compare to other meats. It has a deep, rich flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet. The meat is tender and falls off the bone when cooked properly. The marrow inside the bone adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.

How to Cook Oxtail?

Cooking oxtail can be a bit of work, but the end result is well worth it. Here are some tips for cooking oxtail:

• Always check the product before buying to ensure that it is fresh and of good quality.
• Oxtail is best cooked low and slow, so plan for a long cooking time.
• There are many different variations of oxtail dishes from around the globe, so don’t be afraid to get inventive with your cooking.
• Chefs at upscale restaurants often feature oxtail dishes on their menus, so try one out to get an idea of how it should taste.

Where to Buy Oxtail?

Oxtail can be found in most specialty meat shops and some grocery stores. It is unlikely to be found in large chain stores, but it is worth checking. If you can’t find it locally, there are many online retailers that offer oxtail products.

What’s the Taste of Oxtail Like?

When it comes to oxtail, the taste is worth the effort of looking past its knobby appearance. The meat tastes like beef, but with a more intense and rich flavor. The presence of gelatinous fat brings a unique taste to the dish, making it a perfect choice for those looking for something extraordinary.

Comparing Oxtail to Other Cuts of Meat

Compared to other cuts of meat, oxtail is incredibly tender and has a silkier texture. When simmered for a long time, it creates a mouth-watering dish that is highly sought after in many restaurants. Some people even consider it a delicacy due to its high price and the time required to prepare it properly.

The Benefits of Including Oxtail in Your Diet

Oxtail is loaded with nutritional benefits, making it a good choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It contains a high level of protein and is low in fat, making it a great choice for people looking to prevent heart disease. Oxtail also contains an abundance of gelatin, which can help to bring a little extra flavor to dishes featuring rice or other grains.

The Proper Techniques for Cooking Oxtail

Cooking oxtail requires some proper techniques to transform this tough piece of meat into a mouth-watering dish. Some methods include slow-cooking, braising, or pressure cooking. The preparation of oxtail depends on personal preferences, but the most prominent dishes served with oxtail include soups, stews, and curries.

The Presence of Oxtail in Restaurants

Oxtail is a featured item in many restaurants, and it’s no wonder why. The meat brings a unique taste to any dish it’s included in, providing a level of flavor that other cuts of meat lack. If you’ve never tried oxtail before, it’s worth giving it a shot. You might just find that it’s your new favorite food.

Mastering the Art of Cooking Oxtail

• Ask your butcher to trim the excess fat and cut the oxtails into large pieces.
• Rinse the oxtail pieces with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Season the oxtail pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Thickening the Sauce

• If you want to thicken the sauce, you can use a natural thickening agent like flour or cornstarch.
• Mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and pour it into the pot while stirring.
• Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Finishing the Dish

• Remove the oxtail pieces from the pot and set them aside to cool.
• Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce.
• If you want a spicy gravy, you can add a tsp of hot sauce or chili flakes.
• Return the oxtail pieces to the pot and let them simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Serve the oxtail with the sauce and your choice of sides.

Quick Instant Pot Method

• Season the oxtail pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a tablespoon of oil.
• Brown the oxtail pieces on all sides for about 5 minutes.
• Remove the oxtail pieces from the pot and set them aside.
• Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot and cook until they are soft.
• Pour in enough beef stock or water to cover the oxtail pieces and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 45 minutes.
• Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
• Follow the steps for thickening the sauce and finishing the dish as mentioned above.

Tips and Tricks

• The ideal cooking time for oxtail depends on the size of the pieces and the method of cooking.
• Slow cooking is the best method for oxtail as it allows the meat to become tender and flavorful.
• Oxtail is considered a tough cut of meat, but it’s also one of the most flavorful and protein-rich parts of the beef.
• Oxtail is a typical course in many cuisines, and the type of sauce or gravy can change depending on the recipe and the region.
• Rolling the oxtail pieces in flour before browning them can help to create a crispy crust and add extra flavor to the dish.
• Covering the pot while simmering the oxtail can help to retain the moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
• You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the pot while cooking for additional flavor.

Get Cooking: Mouth-Watering Oxtail Recipes

This is the perfect recipe for a comforting dinner that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. Here’s what you need to do:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 4 hours
• Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 kg oxtails
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 peeled and chopped carrots
• 4 stalks of celery, chopped
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 cup red wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Start by seasoning the oxtails with salt and pepper.
2. Grab a large pot and heat it up on high heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.
3. Remove the oxtails from the pot and set them aside.
4. Add the onions, garlic, bay leaves, carrots, and celery to the pot. Gently sauté the vegetables until they are soft.
5. Pour in the beef stock and red wine and bring to a boil.
6. Add the oxtails back into the pot and reduce the heat to low.
7. Cover the pot and allow the oxtails to cook for 3-4 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bones.
8. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed.
9. Serve the oxtails with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Slow Cooker Oxtail Stew

If you want to make a deliciously unctuous oxtail stew without spending hours in the kitchen, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for you. Here’s what you need to do:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 8 hours
• Total time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 kg oxtails
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 peeled and chopped carrots
• 4 stalks of celery, chopped
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 cup red wine
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Season the oxtails with salt and pepper.
2. Grab a large skillet and heat it up on high heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.
3. Remove the oxtails from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Add the onions, garlic, bay leaves, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
5. Place the oxtails on top of the vegetables.
6. Pour in the beef stock and red wine.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bones.
8. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed.
9. Serve the oxtails with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Cheesy Oxtail Ribs

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to serve oxtail, try this cheesy oxtail ribs recipe. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here’s what you need to do:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour
• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 kg oxtails
• 1 cup Guinness beer
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Season the oxtails with salt and pepper.
3. Grab a large skillet and heat it up on high heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.
4. Remove the oxtails from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Add the onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and bay leaves to the skillet. Gently sauté the vegetables until they are soft.
6. Pour in the Guinness beer and beef stock and bring to a boil.
7. Add the oxtails back into the skillet and reduce the heat to low.
8. Cover the skillet and allow the oxtails to cook for 1 hour or until the meat is tender and falls off the bones.
9. Remove the oxtails from the skillet and set them aside.
10. Reduce the sauce until it thickens.
11. Place the oxtails on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
12. Pour the sauce over the oxtails.
13. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
14. Place the skillet in the oven and cook for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
15. Serve and enjoy!

Instant Pot Oxtail Stew

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious oxtail stew, this Instant Pot recipe is

Don’t Make These Mistakes When Cooking Oxtail

When it comes to oxtail, not all cuts are created equal. The largest and oldest oxtails are the toughest, while the smaller and younger ones are more tender. Depending on how you plan to cook your oxtail, you’ll want to choose the right size and age. For slow-cooking methods like stovetop or oven, go for the larger, tougher cuts. For faster methods like air fryer or pressure cooker (here’s how you can even smoke), choose the smaller, more tender cuts.

Undercooking or Overcooking the Oxtail

Oxtail can take several hours to cook properly, depending on the method you choose. Boiling on the stove can take up to 4 hours, while slow cookers and pressure cookers can take anywhere from 6-8 hours. The worst mistake you can make is to undercook or overcook your oxtail. Undercooked oxtail will be tough and chewy, while overcooked oxtail will fall apart and render easily. To avoid this, wait until the oxtail is tender and falls off the bone before removing it from the heat.

Not Browning the Oxtail Before Cooking

One of the best ways to add flavor to oxtail is to brown it before cooking. This old-fashioned technique helps to caramelize the meat and give it a rich, deep flavor. Season the oxtail with salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice, then brown it in a hot skillet before adding it to your recipe.

Using the Wrong Cooking Method

Oxtail can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, slow cooking, pressure cooking, oven roasting, and even air frying. However, not all methods are created equal. Boiling on the stove is a classic Jamaican method, but it can result in tough, chewy meat if not done properly. Slow cookers and pressure cookers are great for tender, falling-off-the-bone oxtail, while oven roasting and air frying can give you a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Not Allowing Enough Time for the Oxtail to Cook

As mentioned earlier, oxtail can take several hours to cook properly. The biggest mistake you can make is not allowing enough time for the meat to cook. If you’re in a rush, oxtail is not the meat for you. Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to cook the oxtail until it’s tender and falling off the bone.

Where to Get Your Hands on Some Delicious Oxtail Meat

If you’re looking for high-quality oxtail, your local butcher shop is a great place to start. These shops often carry a variety of beef products, including oxtail, and can offer you a select cut that meets your needs. They can also provide you with instructions on how to cook oxtail to make it tender and flavorful. The price of oxtail may vary depending on the area you’re in, but it’s worth the investment for the rich protein content and great taste.

Grocery Stores

Most grocery stores carry oxtail in their meat section. However, the quality of the meat may not be as high as that of a butcher shop. Check the label to ensure that you’re getting the best quality oxtail available. You may also find different types of oxtail products, such as pre-seasoned or pre-cut oxtail, which can save you time in the kitchen.

Online Stores

If you can’t find oxtail in your local area, consider looking online. There are many online stores that specialize in selling meat products, including oxtail. You can select the type of oxtail you want and have it delivered straight to your door. However, keep in mind that shipping costs may add to the overall price of the meat.

Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets are a great place to find fresh, locally sourced meat products, including oxtail. You can talk to the farmers and ask about the quality of the meat, how it was raised, and how to cook it. The price of oxtail at farmers’ markets may be higher than at grocery stores, but the quality and taste are often worth the extra cost.

Why Oxtail Comes With a High Price Tag

• Oxtail is one of the most expensive cuts of beef.
• It is mainly sold to high-end restaurants and is not affordable to most customers.
• The reason for this is that oxtail requires a lot more produce compared to traditional beef dishes.
• To produce one pound of oxtails, you’ll need about 6 pounds (2 kg) of bones.
• The remaining 4 pounds (1.8 kg) will be made up of connective tissue, cartilage, and fat.
• As a result, the availability of oxtail is limited, and the price is higher than other types of beef.

The Difficult Preparation and Advanced Techniques

• Oxtail requires advanced cooking techniques and a longer cooking time than other cuts of beef.
• The preparation of oxtail is difficult, and it requires a lot of patience and skill to transform it into a fine dish.
• Unlike other cuts of beef, oxtail is mainly served in smaller portions, which means that restaurants need to charge a higher price to sustain their business.
• The ability to utilize the entire male cow is another reason why oxtail is worth the price.

The Benefits and Popular Choice

• Despite its high price, oxtail is a popular choice among Americans.
• The benefits of including oxtail in your diet include its rich and sweet flavor, as well as its potential to serve as a substitute for seafood dishes.
• Oxtail is also a great way to save money on electricity bills since it can be cooked on low heat for a long time.
• Putting oxtail in a mix with onions and freezing it is a great way to save money and utilize the entire cut.
• Butchers usually sell oxtail in smaller forms, making it easier for customers to buy only what they need.
• Despite the high price, oxtail is still a highly sought-after dish in restaurants and is worth paying for.

Why Oxtail Is A Nutritional Powerhouse

Oxtail is not only a delicious cut of meat, but it also contains a wide range of essential nutrients that can benefit your body. Some of the key nutrients present in oxtail include:

• Collagen: Oxtail is rich in collagen, a crucial protein that plays a significant role in building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Fatty Acids: Oxtail is a fatty cut of meat, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone on a high-fat, low-carb, or no-carb diet. The high-fat content in oxtail can provide a significant energy boost and help increase ketone production in the body.
• Iron: Oxtail is an excellent source of iron, a crucial mineral that plays a key role in the production of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen throughout the body.

Good for Heart Health

In addition to being rich in essential nutrients, oxtail can also offer a range of potential health benefits. Some of the key benefits associated with regular oxtail consumption include:

• Lowering Blood Pressure: Oxtail contains plenty of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Protecting Against Damage: Oxtail is rich in gelatinous particles, which can help protect against certain types of damage to the body’s cells and tissues.
• Improving Cholesterol Levels: Oxtail is known to contain a unique mix of fatty acids that can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Great for Building Muscle

If you’re looking to build muscle, oxtail is an excellent choice of meat. The high protein content in oxtail can help build and repair muscle tissue, while the collagen content can help improve joint health and reduce the risk of injury.

Ideal for Low-Carb Diets

Oxtail is a great choice of meat for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The high-fat, low-carbohydrate content in oxtail makes it an ideal energy source for these types of diets.

How to Choose and Prepare Oxtail

When picking out oxtail, it’s important to choose cuts that are fresh and free from any signs of spoilage. Local butchers are a great place to find high-quality oxtail portions. When it comes to preparing oxtail, there are plenty of methods to choose from, including slow-cooking, braising, and serving with rice dishes. Just be sure to break down the connective tissue by having a long cooking process to get the full nutritional benefit.

Conclusion

So there you have it- everything you need to know about oxtail. Oxtail is a delicious tail of the cow that’s a great source of protein and rich in nutrients. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to stews to curries, and it’s a great way to add some flavor to your meal. So don’t be afraid to give it a try!

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Lakeside Smokers is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with BBQ Smoking (& Japanese food!) at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.