Savory Braised Oxtail Recipe - A Wellborn 2R Ranch Specialty
Welcome to Wellborn 2R Ranch's kitchen! Today, we're sharing a special recipe that's close to our heart - our signature Savory Braised Oxtail. This dish combines the rich flavors of oxtail with a blend of aromatic herbs and vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection. It's a hearty, comforting meal that's perfect for any family gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- Oxtails (quantity as per serving size)
- Salt and black pepper
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Olive oil
- Diced onions
- Chopped carrots
- Minced garlic
- Red wine
- Tomato purée
- Beef broth
- Fresh herbs: Thyme, rosemary, bay leaf
- Garnish: Chopped parsley, lemon zest, and garlic
Steps:
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Marinating the Oxtails: Start by seasoning the oxtails with a mix of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Make sure the meat is evenly coated with the seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours, ideally overnight, to enhance the flavors.
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Browning the Oxtails: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the oxtails in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear them until golden brown on all sides. This process adds depth to the flavor. Remove the browned oxtails and set them aside on a plate.
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Preparing the Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onions, chopped carrots, and minced garlic. Cook these until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Deglazing the Pot: Pour a splash of red wine into the pot. This step helps lift the browned bits off the bottom, which are key to the stew’s flavor. Stir in a spoonful of tomato purée and cook for an additional minute.
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Baking the Dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Add the browned oxtails back into the pot along with enough beef broth to cover them. Add a bouquet of tied fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, bay leaf). Bring the pot to a simmer before covering it.
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Slow Cooking: Place the covered pot in the preheated oven. Cook for about 3 hours, turning the oxtails every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. The meat should be tender and nearly falling off the bone when done.
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Finishing Touches: Remove the oxtails from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Strain the cooking liquid to remove fat and herbs. Pour the strained sauce over the oxtails. For garnish, mix chopped parsley, lemon zest, and a bit of garlic, and sprinkle it over the dish.
Pairing Section:
To elevate your culinary experience with our Savory Braised Oxtail, consider these food and wine pairings:
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Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the oxtail. These wines complement the depth and savory notes of the braised meat.
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Side Dishes: Creamy mashed potatoes or a rustic polenta make excellent accompaniments, providing a smooth contrast to the oxtail's texture. For a healthier option, consider a side of roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
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Bread Pairing: A crusty loaf of artisan bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
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Dessert: For dessert, something light and refreshing, like a lemon sorbet or a fruit tart, would be a delightful way to end the meal.
Conclusion:
And there you have it, a delightful and comforting Savory Braised Oxtail dish, straight from the heart of Wellborn 2R Ranch. This recipe not only brings a taste of homestyle cooking to your table but also showcases the versatility and richness of oxtail as an ingredient. Remember, the key to a great braised oxtail is patience – letting the meat slowly tenderize and absorb all the flavors.
As you enjoy this meal, think of the rolling pastures and the care we put into raising our livestock at Wellborn 2R Ranch. We're excited to see how this dish turns out for you. Share your photos and experiences with us, and let us know if you've added your own twist to this classic recipe.
For more delicious recipes and ranch stories, keep following our blog. Happy cooking from all of us at Wellborn 2R Ranch!
