5 Slow Cooker Oxtail Stew Recipes

You’re about to initiate a tasty adventure with five slow cooker oxtail stew recipes! First, try the classic oxtail stew, which pairs beautifully with crusty bread. Feeling bold? Go for the spicy Caribbean version, loaded with zesty flavors from scotch bonnet peppers. If you’re in the mood for something rich, the red wine-braised option is your best bet. The Asian-inspired stew brings a unique twist with soy sauce and spices, while the hearty vegetable version guarantees satisfaction with fresh veggies. Can’t decide? Explore each recipe further for tips to impress even the pickiest eaters!

Classic Oxtail Stew

Title: Classic Oxtail Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Number of Servings: 6
Required Equipment List: Slow cooker, skillet, cutting board, knife, measuring cups and spoons
Cuisine Type: American

Classic Oxtail Stew is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling. This stew features tender, slow-cooked oxtails that become melt-in-your-mouth delicious as they simmer in a rich broth filled with vegetables and aromatic herbs.

The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and satisfying. This recipe highlights the natural richness of oxtail, complemented by the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of potatoes, and the brightness of fresh herbs.

Served with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy polenta, this Classic Oxtail Stew is sure to become a family favorite, offering a taste of comfort and home-cooked goodness in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds oxtails
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and sear the oxtails on all sides until they’re browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the stew. Once browned, transfer the oxtails to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. This will enhance their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
3. Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with the cubed potatoes. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), then stir in the tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The low and slow method guarantees that the oxtails become tender and the flavors develop fully.
5. Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the stew before cooking.

If you prefer a thicker stew, consider mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, and stir it into the stew in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This dish also freezes well, so feel free to make a larger batch and enjoy it later!

Spicy Caribbean Oxtail Stew

Title: Spicy Caribbean Oxtail Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Number of Servings: 6
Required Equipment List: Slow cooker, large skillet, cutting board, knife, measuring cups and spoons
Cuisine Type: Caribbean

This Spicy Caribbean Oxtail Stew is a rich and hearty dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean right to your table. The tender oxtail is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the spices to meld beautifully, creating a savory and slightly spicy broth.

With the addition of aromatic vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and garlic, this stew isn’t only filling but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone.

The slow cooking process allows the oxtail to become incredibly tender while infusing the broth with deep, rich flavors. This recipe makes use of traditional Caribbean spices like allspice and scotch bonnet peppers, adding a distinctive kick that will warm you from the inside out.

Served over rice or with crusty bread, this oxtail stew is a comforting meal that showcases the essence of Caribbean cooking.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds oxtail, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until nicely caramelized. This step enhances the flavor of the stew.
2. Once browned, transfer the oxtail pieces to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened. This will help to build a flavor base for the stew.
3. Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with the sliced carrots, diced tomatoes (with their juice), scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, bay leaves, and beef broth. Stir everything together to guarantee the ingredients are well combined.
4. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the oxtail is tender and the meat is falling off the bone. The slow cooking will allow the flavors to develop and the oxtail to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
5. Once cooked, remove the scotch bonnet peppers and bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the stew over rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Extra Tips: For a thicker stew, you can remove some of the broth towards the end of cooking and reduce it in a saucepan, then stir it back into the stew.

If you like it spicier, you can leave some of the seeds from the scotch bonnet peppers in, or add a dash of hot sauce when serving. This stew pairs wonderfully with a side of fried plantains or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy your flavorful Caribbean feast!

Red Wine Braised Oxtail Stew

Title: Red Wine Braised Oxtail Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Number of Servings: 6
Required Equipment List: Slow cooker, large skillet, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, measuring spoons
Cuisine Type: American

This Red Wine Braised Oxtail Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. The slow cooking process allows the oxtail to become tender and succulent, while the red wine enhances the rich, meaty flavors. Unlike quick-cooking meals, this stew benefits from time, allowing the aromatic vegetables and herbs to meld perfectly with the deep notes of the wine and beef.

It’s the perfect comfort food for cool evenings or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. The oxtail is seared to develop a deep caramelization, and then combined with a medley of vegetables, herbs, and of course, red wine.

The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to prepare sides or simply relax while the stew simmers to perfection. Serve this dish with crusty bread or over creamy polenta for a truly satisfying meal.

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Ingredients:

• 3 pounds oxtail, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the stew.
2. Once the oxtail is browned, remove it from the skillet and place it in the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Transfer the vegetable and wine mixture to the slow cooker with the oxtail. Add the beef broth, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook the stew for 6-8 hours, or until the oxtail is tender and falling off the bone. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Once cooked, remove the oxtail from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly. Discard the bones and return the meat to the stew. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Extra Tips: For added richness, you can finish the stew with a tablespoon of butter stirred in just before serving. Pair the dish with a glass of the same red wine used in cooking for a cohesive dining experience.

If you want to make the stew ahead of time, it can be refrigerated overnight and the flavors will only deepen, making it even more delicious when reheated. Enjoy your comforting bowl of red wine braised oxtail stew!

Asian-Inspired Oxtail Stew

Title: Asian-Inspired Oxtail Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Number of Servings: 6
Required Equipment List: Slow cooker, skillet, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, measuring spoons
Cuisine Type: Asian-inspired

This Asian-Inspired Oxtail Stew is a rich and comforting dish that combines the deep flavors of tender oxtail with aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness. Slow-cooked to perfection, the oxtail becomes incredibly tender while absorbing the vibrant flavors of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce.

The addition of star anise and cinnamon lends an exotic warmth to the stew, making it a perfect meal for cozy evenings or gatherings with family and friends. Served over a bed of steamed rice or alongside crusty bread, this stew isn’t only filling but also packed with umami goodness.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Garnished with fresh scallions and cilantro, this dish brings a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will transport you to a bustling Asian market.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds oxtail, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped scallions and cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches until all sides are golden brown. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the stew.
2. Once browned, transfer the oxtail to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, then add this mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Pour the beef broth and soy sauce over the oxtail in the slow cooker. Stir in the brown sugar, star anise, cinnamon stick, sliced carrot, and chopped bell pepper. Confirm everything is well combined.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or until the oxtail is tender and falling off the bone. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for about 4 hours, but the low setting is ideal for the best flavor.
5. Once cooked, remove the oxtail from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce, then return the oxtail to the sauce. Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped scallions and cilantro.

Extra Tips: For a thicker sauce, you can remove the oxtail once cooked and blend a portion of the sauce until smooth, then return it to the slow cooker. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste.

This stew pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a side of crispy Asian pickles for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

Hearty Vegetable Oxtail Stew

Title: Hearty Vegetable Oxtail Stew
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Number of Servings: 6
Required Equipment List: Slow cooker, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, mixing spoon
Cuisine Type: Comfort Food

Hearty Vegetable Oxtail Stew is a warm and comforting dish that brings together tender oxtail and a medley of vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s not only hearty but also deeply satisfying.

This stew is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, as it fills your home with enticing aromas and creates a delightful experience for everyone at the table. Packed with nutritious vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, this oxtail stew is a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meal.

The oxtail becomes wonderfully tender and flavorful after hours in the slow cooker, while the vegetables retain their shape and add a delightful texture. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth for a complete meal that warms the soul.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds oxtail, cut into pieces
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches until they’re golden on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat and adds depth to the stew.
2. Once browned, transfer the oxtail to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the broth, ensuring that the oxtail and vegetables are submerged in liquid.
4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. During this time, the oxtail will become tender, and the flavors will develop beautifully. Stir occasionally if possible, but it’s not necessary.
5. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the oxtail pieces from the stew. Allow them to cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bones, discarding the bones and excess fat. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, stir to combine, and taste for seasoning before serving.

Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth before cooking. You can also incorporate other vegetables such as green beans or peas during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.

If you have leftovers, this stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or a cozy lunch. Enjoy your hearty vegetable oxtail stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a delicious meal.

Conclusion

No matter which slow cooker oxtail stew recipe you choose, you’re in for a delicious treat. Whether you crave the classic flavors, the spicy kick, or the rich depth of red wine, each dish brings warmth and comfort to your table. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. Are you ready to savor these mouthwatering stews? Immerse yourself and enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and sharing!

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