Jamaican Oxtail
Jamaican Oxtail is a beloved dish, renowned for its rich flavors and comforting essence. Growing up, I was enchanted by the way my grandmother would prepare this dish on special occasions, filling our home with warm, savory aromas. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy supper, or a spirited holiday celebration, this dish epitomizes the heart of Jamaican cuisine. The tender, fall-off-the-bone oxtail simmered in aromatic spices creates a bowl of joy that invites second helpings.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll find plenty of reasons to make Jamaican Oxtail your next culinary adventure. For one, it’s a dish that celebrates comfort food at its finest—perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or celebratory feasts alike. The use of oxtail gives this dish a rich flavor that’s hard to replicate, making it an impressive choice for family and friends. With a mix of spices that balance sweetness and heat, every bite takes your taste buds on a delightful journey.
“This oxtail recipe brought the taste of Jamaica straight to my kitchen. The meat was so tender, and the flavors were absolutely divine! Definitely a recipe I’ll make again and again.” – A satisfied home cook.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Jamaican Oxtail is an engaging and relatively straightforward process—perfect for both seasoned cooks and those looking to expand their culinary repertoire. You’ll begin by marinating the oxtail to enhance its flavors, followed by searing it to unlock even more depth. After a simmering session, you’ll be rewarded with tender meat bathed in a decadent sauce. This step-by-step overview will give you a clear path ahead, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for each stage of the cooking journey.
Key Ingredients
To create this sumptuous dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2.5 to 3 lbs oxtail, cleaned
- 1 tbsp browning sauce (optional, for color)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose seasoning
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional for heat)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 can (15 oz) butter beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp oil (for browning meat)
With everything ready, you’re prepared to unfold the flavors of this classic Jamaican dish.
