How to Make Jamaican Oxtail

Oxtail is a rich and flavorful dish that holds a special place in Jamaican recipe. Known for its tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and deeply seasoned gravy, Jamaican oxtail is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Jamaican oxtail right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Oxtail:

• 3 pounds oxtail, cleaned and trimmed
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (optional)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, 
• 3 stalks scallion, chopped
• 1 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 tablespoons browning sauce (or soy sauce for color)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups water or beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed

For Serving:

• White rice or rice and peas 

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Oxtail

1. Clean the oxtail: Rinse the oxtail pieces under cold lemon, vinegar or lime water to remove any impurities. Also, pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the meat: Place the oxtail in a large bowl. Add the black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, browning and fresh seasoning. Mix well to ensure all the pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, for deeper flavor.

Step 2: 

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, then add the brown sugar, minced garlic and paprika mix well for 30 secs.
2. Add the oxtail pieces to the pot in batches, browning them on all sides. This step locks in the flavor and adds richness to the dish. Allow the oxtail to simmer on low to medium heat for 30 minutes, stir occasionally.

Step 3: 

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, scallion, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Mix well, then simmer for another 30 minutes

Step 4: 

1. Pour in the water or beef broth, ensuring the meat is just covered. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed to prevent sticking. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed. 

Step 5: 

1. Once the oxtail is tender, add ketchup and sliced carrots and drained butter beans to the pot.
2. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the carrots are cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a rich gravy. Remove the thyme sprigs before serving.

How to Serve Jamaican Oxtail

Serve your delicious Jamaican oxtail over a bed of fluffy white rice or traditional Jamaican rice and peas. Add a side of steamed vegetables or fried plantains for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal. Don’t forget to ladle plenty of that flavorful gravy over the rice for an unforgettable dining experience!