Braised Oxtails with Caribbean Spices

Here’s a flavorful recipe for braised oxtails with Caribbean spices:

Braised Oxtails with Caribbean Spices

Ingredients:

• 2-3 pounds oxtails, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (whole, for spice)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons ground allspice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sear the oxtails: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the oxtails with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches. Sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet peppers, cooking for another minute.
3. Add spices: Sprinkle in the allspice, cumin, thyme, and bay leaves, stirring to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine ingredients: Return the oxtails to the pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and brown sugar. Stir everything together.
5. Braise the oxtails: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the meat is falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
6. Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper (unless you like it very spicy). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the oxtails over rice or with your favorite sides, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Caribbean-style braised oxtails!