Preparing the Oxtail
Oxtail is an incredibly tasty cut of meat that is surprisingly versatile and easy to prepare. Before you begin the slow cooking process, you must first prepare the oxtail. This can be done in a variety of ways, including marinating it, seasoning it, or simply rubbing it with a blend of herbs and spices.
Marinating the oxtail is a great way to add extra flavor and tenderize the meat. It is best to marinate the oxtail for at least 8 hours or overnight, though you can marinate it for up to 24 hours if desired. Any marinade will work just fine, though a combination of red wine, olive oil, garlic, and herbs is a classic option.
Once the oxtail is ready, you will need to brown it. This can be done either in a large skillet over medium-high heat or in a slow cooker on the sauté setting. Whichever method you choose, be sure to brown the oxtail on all sides for a few minutes to help lock in the flavor.
Cooking the Oxtail in a Slow Cooker
Once the oxtail has been prepped and browned, it's time to start slow cooking. The key to a perfect oxtail recipe in a slow cooker is to use a liquid or sauce that will add flavor and moisture to the meat. Some good options include beef stock, red wine, tomato sauce, or a combination of these.
Once you have chosen your cooking liquid, add it to the slow cooker along with any desired vegetables and herbs. Turn the slow cooker to the low setting and let the oxtail cook for 8-10 hours. The oxtail should be fork-tender when finished.
Serving Oxtail
Once the oxtail is cooked, it's time to serve it. Oxtail is a great addition to a variety of dishes, from stews and soups to pasta dishes and curries. It can also be served on its own with a side of mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower, or cooked vegetables.
The most important thing to remember when serving oxtail is that it needs to be cooked until it is very tender. If it is not cooked long enough, it will be tough and chewy. The oxtail should fall apart easily when poked with a fork.
Additional Tips
When preparing oxtail in a slow cooker, it is important to use a good quality slow cooker. The temperature needs to be low enough to allow the oxtail to cook properly without overcooking. If the temperature is too high, the oxtail will become tough.
It is also a good idea to season the oxtail before cooking. This will help to bring out the flavor of the oxtail and create a more flavorful dish.
Finally, make sure to let the oxtail rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking before serving. This will help the flavors to meld together and give you the best possible dish.
Conclusion
Oxtail is a delicious and surprisingly versatile cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking. With a few simple steps, you can create a delicious oxtail dish that is sure to impress. Start by marinating and browning the oxtail, then add in a liquid or sauce of your choice and let it cook in a slow cooker on low heat for 8-10 hours. After it is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. With a little bit of planning, you can have a delicious oxtail dish ready in no time.
