Rich & Tender Slow Cooker Oxtail Stew

When you hear “oxtail,” it might be confusing because it’s not from an ox, but from the tail of regular beef cattle. Despite this, the cut is incredibly popular in many cultures and cuisines around the world.

The magic of oxtail is how it changes while cooking – what begins as a tough piece of meat turns tender and juicy. It also makes a flavorful broth that’s great for many different dishes.

To prepare a rich, slow-cooked oxtail dish, you’ll need key ingredients that enhance its flavor. Oxtail, available at butcher shops, Asian markets, or specialty stores, typically requires 2-3 lbs for a satisfying meal.

• Aromatics: Diced onions and minced garlic lay the foundation for bold flavors.
• Broth: 2½-4 cups of beef broth serve as the gravy base, with homemade bone broth adding an extra collagen boost.
• Tomato Paste & Worcestershire Sauce: Add richness and umami depth.
• Browning Sauce: Enhances color and depth of flavor.
• Herbs & Spices: Bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and parsley add balanced flavor, while paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper make the dish even tastier.
• Flour & Fat: All-purpose flour thickens the gravy, and butter or olive oil helps with browning and sautéing.

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Oxtails

Season oxtails with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat oil or butter in a pan or your slow cooker. Lightly fry the oxtails, turning them until they are golden brown on all sides, for a few minutes per side.

This process locks in flavor and enhances texture. Once browned, set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan or slow cooker, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Stir in thyme and oregano for an aromatic boost. For more flavor, you can add finely chopped carrots and celery.

Step 3: Build the Gravy

Add tomato paste to the pan and cook for about a minute to develop its flavor. Deglaze with red wine or beef broth, letting it simmer and reduce.

 Whisk in flour until a smooth paste forms, then gradually pour in the remaining beef broth. Enhance the flavor with brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder, creating a velvety, flavorful gravy.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

Place the browned oxtails into the slow cooker, ensuring they are submerged in the gravy. Add bay leaves for a deep, earthy aroma. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with flavor.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

For a richer sauce, remove the cooked oxtails and switch the slow cooker to sauté mode. Prepare a cornstarch or arrowroot slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of starch with 2 tablespoons of water. Whisk it into the gravy until thickened. Return the oxtails to coat them in the sauce. 

Slow-cooked oxtail pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Creamy Polenta: Absorbs the luscious gravy for an indulgent experience.
• Mashed Potatoes or Egg Noodles: A comforting, classic base that allows the flavors to shine.
• Southern Pairings: Serve with cornbread, collard greens, or cabbage for a soul food twist.

• Brown the oxtails first: This step enhances flavor and creates a caramelized crust.
• Patience is key: Slow cooking ensures fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit overnight deepens the flavors, making leftovers even tastier.
• Storage: Keep oxtails in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later. The dish maintains its rich taste even after reheating.

Slow cooking breaks down the gelatin in oxtails, creating a luxurious, silky texture. It enriches the beef broth, making every bite comforting and full of deep, well-balanced flavors. A splash of wine and the perfect combination of seasonings elevate the dish to restaurant-quality levels.

This recipe is perfect for both special occasions and cozy weekends. With minimal effort, it delivers maximum flavor, making it an excellent go-to dish for family dinners or gatherings. Its impressive presentation and satisfying taste make it well worth the wait.