If you’re craving a taste of the Caribbean, this Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Recipe is a must-try! Known for its rich, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, Jamaican oxtail is a beloved dish that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special. Slow-cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices, butter beans, and a rich gravy, this dish is a true celebration of Jamaican cuisine. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the flavors of the islands to your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Oxtail Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of allspice, thyme, scallions, and other spices creates a deep, complex flavor profile.
- Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender: Slow cooking ensures the oxtail becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This hearty dish is soul-warming and satisfying, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Authentic Taste: Made with traditional Jamaican ingredients and techniques, this recipe stays true to its roots.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Oxtail: 3-4 pounds, trimmed and cut into segments.
- Allspice (Pimento): 1 tablespoon, whole or ground.
- Thyme: 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced.
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated.
- Scallions: 4-5, chopped.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper: 1, whole (for flavor, not heat) or substitute with habanero.
- Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons.
- Browning Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for color).
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons.
- Beef Broth: 4 cups.
- Butter Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed.
- Carrots: 2 medium, chopped (optional).
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Oxtail: In a large bowl, season the oxtail with salt, pepper, allspice, thyme, garlic, ginger, scallions, and soy sauce. Mix well to ensure the oxtail is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Brown the Oxtail: Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtail in batches, searing each piece on all sides until nicely caramelized. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, for flavor without too much heat) and return the oxtail to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Slow Cook: Cover the pot and let the oxtail simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Add more broth or water if needed to keep the oxtail submerged.
- Add Vegetables and Beans: About 30 minutes before the oxtail is done, add the carrots (if using) and butter beans. Stir to combine and let them cook until tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of browning sauce for a deeper color.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the oxtail hot over steamed rice, with a side of Jamaican rice and peas, or with fried plantains for an authentic Caribbean meal.
Tips for the Perfect Jamaican Oxtail
- Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the oxtail overnight in the refrigerator.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Patience is key! Slow cooking ensures the oxtail becomes tender and flavorful.
- Handle Scotch Bonnet Pepper with Care: Use gloves when handling the pepper, and avoid breaking it open unless you want extra heat.
- Use a Pressure Cooker: To save time, you can cook the oxtail in a pressure cooker for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Nutritional Benefits
While Jamaican oxtail is a rich and indulgent dish, it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Oxtail: High in protein and collagen, which supports joint health and skin elasticity.
- Butter Beans: A great source of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which is good for eye health.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen when the dish is allowed to sit overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I use instead of browning sauce?
You can substitute browning sauce with a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar, or simply omit it.
Is this recipe spicy?
The Scotch bonnet pepper adds flavor without too much heat if left whole. For a spicier dish, you can chop the pepper or add a pinch of cayenne.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Recipe is a true labor of love, delivering tender, flavorful meat in a rich, savory gravy. It’s a dish that brings people together and transports you to the vibrant streets of Jamaica with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a taste of the Caribbean, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, turn on some reggae music, and get ready to savor this delicious Jamaican classic!