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Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Recipe

Savory Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Recipe for Dinner Bliss

This Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Recipe delivers unmatched depth of flavor, perfect for dinner gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Jamaican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Oxtail
  • 3 pounds Oxtail The star ingredient, providing rich flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Adds a delightful hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
  • 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Infuses umami richness; use gluten-free Tamari if needed.
  • 4 cups Beef Broth Creates a luscious base for simmering; chicken broth can be a backup.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 large Onion Brings a lovely sweetness; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Essential for that aromatic depth; always opt for fresh garlic.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme This fragrant herb is a must; fresh is ideal, but dried works too.
For the Veggies and Spice
  • 2 medium Carrots Adds natural sweetness and texture; parsnips can be an interesting swap.
  • 1 piece Scotch Bonnet Pepper Introduces a signature heat; adjust for your spice tolerance or substitute with jalapeño.
  • 1 teaspoon Pimento Seeds (Allspice) Imparts a unique, aromatic spiciness; allspice powder can work too.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Brightens the dish with its acidity; lemon juice will do in a pinch.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Oxtail: Rinse the oxtail under cold water, pat it dry, and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Oxtail: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear oxtail for 4–5 minutes on each side.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and thyme, sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Add Vegetables and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in carrots, brown sugar, soy sauce, beef broth, pimento seeds, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Mix and simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return seared oxtail to skillet, cover and reduce heat. Let simmer for 3–4 hours.
  6. Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the oxtail rest for a few minutes and serve over rice or mashed potatoes with sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Marinate oxtail overnight for deeper flavor. Don't skip searing to lock in flavors. Slow cook for tenderness and adjust spice levels as necessary. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.

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