"You, Me, and He" Easy Caribbean Style Oxtail Stew {Recipe}

Caribbean-style oxtail stew: succulent meat infused with spicy warmth, balanced by sweet undertones of vegetables. Paired with Mtume's "You, Me, and He," it's a harmonious blend of soulful flavors and melodies that transport you to a Caribbean culinary paradise.

Related Oxtail Posts:

• Southern Braised Oxtail
• Instant Pot Cuban Oxtail
• Smoked Oxtail

Step into the rhythm of the islands with my Caribbean Style Oxtail stew recipe, where each ingredient dances in perfect harmony to create a symphony of flavors. In the spirit of my music, let the fragrant spices and slow-cooked oxtails transport you to a place where the sun kisses the sea breeze, and the vibrant pulse of the Caribbean comes alive.

This dish is a celebration of the soulful fusion that happens when the warmth of the tropics meets the depth of slow-braised oxtails. So, let the melodies of the kitchen guide you as we embark on a culinary journey through the Caribbean, where every bite is a note in the song of flavor.

Late fall and wintertime is oxtail stew time. Well truthfully speaking in my house, anytime is oxtail stew time. This slow-braised oxtail recipe is long on flavor and tenderness.

The oxtail is marinated simply overnight, then slow-cooked in complex and deeply flavored braising liquid that includes soy, cooking sherry, and Worcestershire sauce.

Though not prepared like traditional Jamaican oxtail stew, the flavor profile is distinctly Caribbean with some Asian influence.

What Is Oxtail?

For those unfamiliar, oxtails aren’t actually the tail from an ox but are from the tail of a cow cut into pieces. Each piece has a thick cylindrical bone with chunks of tough, fatty meat.

If cooked the right way they are as delicious as beef short ribs. They are perfect for slow-cooked braising and stews as the process basically renders them butter-like tender.

Baked oxtails for a long time have been a staple in serious soul food cooking. My grandmother would make big pots of them on Sundays and we’d have many guests pop over and enjoy individual bowlfuls with cornbread and hot sauce.

Before prices got so out of hand you were as likely to see big pots of oxtails in our house as you would a pot roast.

Oxtail is very tasty partially because of its high fat content, including saturated fat. All that stuff that sits between the meat and bone is all fatty goodness for the most part.

Beats and Eats Pairing

The pairing of Mtume's song "You, Me, and He" with Caribbean-style braised oxtails creates a delightful synergy that combines the sensory experiences of music and food.

"You, Me, and He" has a smooth and soulful R&B sound that creates a relaxed almost sensual atmosphere. This mood aligns with the laid-back, tropical vibes often associated with Caribbean cuisine. The combination of the song's soothing melodies and the aromatic, flavorful braised oxtails help provide an overall enjoyable and enahnced experience.

The tempo and rhythm of the song can set a comfortable pace for cooking and dining. The slow-cooked nature of Caribbean-style braised oxtails aligns with the unhurried, sultry feel of the music. This synchronization of tempo creates a harmonious experience where the music and the flavors of the food complement each other.

Caribbean Beef Oxtail Ingredients

• Beef Oxtail
• Allspice - the key spice that gives the oxtail that quintessential Caribbean flavor and vibe. Allspice has a warm and rich flavor reminiscent of a combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This warmth adds depth to the stew, creating a comforting and soulful character.
• Smoked Sweet Paprika - provides a little smoky and earthly flavor notes
• Kosher salt and pepper
• Nutmeg - if have fresh pods available to you definitely go this route. Nutmeg pairs well with rich and hearty meats, such as oxtail. Its flavor can complement the savory and robust taste of the meat, adding a layer of complexity to each bite.
• Browning Sauce - burnt sugar flavoring common in Jamaican cooking
• Onions
• Fresh ginger - has a warm and spicy flavor that imparts a subtle heat to the stew.
• Garlic cloves - The complex flavor of garlic—combining sweetness when roasted or sautéed and pungency when raw—adds layers of complexity to the stew. This complexity complements the spices and other ingredients, creating a well-rounded taste experience.
• Scotch Bonnet Chili - feel free to substitute habanero if you can't find scotch bonnets. Beyond its heat, the Scotch bonnet chili contributes a unique and fruity flavor to the stew.
• Bay leaf -
• Fresh thyme - Fresh thyme has a fragrant and earthy aroma that adds a delightful herbal component to the stew. As it simmers, the aromatic compounds in the thyme are released, infusing the stew with a rich and enticing scent.
• Cooking Sherry - red wine or Madeira are fine as replacement substitutes, but I chose sherry for its aromatic qualities. Sherry adds a rich and complex flavor to the stew. The fortified wine brings depth to the overall taste profile, complementing the savory notes of the oxtail and spices.
• Soy Sauce - is known for its rich umami flavor, which adds depth and a savory quality to the stew. This can complement the natural richness of the oxtail and enhance the overall taste profile. Soy sauce is also salty, which helps season the stew. Soy sauce's dark color imparts a deep and rich hue that adds visual appeal to the dish.
• Worcestershire sauce - The combination of anchovies, tamarind, vinegar, and various spices in Worcestershire sauce contributes to a savory and robust flavor profile. This complexity can elevate the overall taste experience of the stew. It also contains vinegar, which adds a subtle tanginess to the stew. This tangy note can brighten up the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the oxtail.
• Brown sugar - adds sweetness, depth, and a subtle caramel undertone to Caribbean-style oxtail stew.
• Water
• Canned Butter Beans (optional) - if using add at step 6
• Tomato paste (optional) - if using add at step 4

How To Stew Oxtail (step by step)

Step 1:

Wash and clean the oxtail. Marinate oxtail in spices (salt, pepper, paprika), browning sauce, thyme, garlic, and onions.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium heat and brown them on all sides. Remove the oxtail and set aside on a plate.

Step 3:

Add the ginger, garlic, allspice, nutmeg, scotch bonnet, thyme and bay leaves. Cook on medium low 1-2 minutes.

Step 4:

Add the dry sherry cooking wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and water. Mix in well.

Step 5:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Add the oxtail back to the pot, and bring to a boil. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 2 to 3 hours. If you prefer "fall off the bone" oxtail use the full 3 hours cook time. For oxtail with more texture cook 2 to 2/1 hours. Oxtail will not be fully submerged so you'll want to rotate oxtails every 30 minutes or so. Check halfway through and add more water if needed.

Step 6:

Remove the lid and cook uncovered at a simmer for another 30 minutes until the meat is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir occasionally, and add additional water if necessary to avoid sticking. Top with green onions. Serve!

What To Serve With Oxtail

Caribbean-style oxtail pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich and flavorful profile. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside Caribbean-style oxtail:

1. Rice and Peas: A classic Caribbean side dish, rice and peas feature rice cooked with coconut milk and kidney beans. The coconut flavor adds a delightful tropical touch that complements the savory oxtail.
2. Plantains: Sweet or savory fried plantains make for a delicious and starchy side. The natural sweetness of ripe plantains contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the oxtail.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a Caribbean twist, perhaps with a dressing that includes lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of spice, can provide a crisp and cooling element to balance the richness of the oxtail.
4. Callaloo: A leafy green vegetable similar to spinach, callaloo can be sautéed or steamed with garlic and other seasonings to create a nutritious and vibrant side dish.
5. Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad with tomatoes, red onions, and a lime-based dressing adds freshness and creaminess to the meal.
6. Fried Okra: Lightly breaded and fried okra adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that pairs well with the richness of Caribbean-style oxtail.
7. Jamaican Bammy: A flatbread made from cassava, Jamaican bammy can be served as a side to soak up the flavorful juices of the oxtail.
8. Fresh Fruit Salsa: A tropical fruit salsa with ingredients like mango, pineapple, and cilantro can add a burst of freshness and sweetness to each bite of oxtail.

Ways To Maximize Flavor In This Recipe

To maximize the flavor of your Caribbean-style oxtail stew, consider incorporating the following tips and techniques:

1. Marinate the Oxtails: Allow the oxtails to marinate in the seasoning blend for at least a few hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and well-seasoned dish.
2. Use Authentic Caribbean Spices: Utilize traditional Caribbean spices like allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet pepper, and cinnamon to capture the authentic flavor profile of Caribbean cuisine. These spices contribute to the rich and aromatic character of the stew.
3. Sear the Oxtails: Before braising, sear the oxtails in a hot pan to develop a flavorful crust. This step enhances the depth of flavor and adds a desirable caramelization to the meat.
4. Slow-Braise for Tenderization: Opt for a slow-cooking method to braise the oxtails. This slow simmering allows the collagen in the meat to break down into gelatin, resulting in a tender and succulent texture.
5. Add Citrus Juices: Incorporate citrus juices like lime or orange to brighten up the flavors. The acidity helps balance the richness of the stew and adds a refreshing element.
6. Layer Flavors: Add ingredients in layers, allowing each component to contribute its unique taste to the overall flavor profile. For example, sauté aromatics like onions, garlic, and peppers before adding them to the stew.
7. Deglaze the Pan: When searing the oxtails, deglaze the pan with broth or wine to capture and incorporate any flavorful bits that have stuck to the bottom of the pan.
8. Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste the stew periodically during the cooking process and adjust the seasoning accordingly. This ensures a well-balanced and flavorful end result.
9. Rest Before Serving: Allow the stew to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a more harmonious taste.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some substitutions and variations you can try for Caribbean oxtail stew:

1. Meat Substitutions:
   • Beef Short Ribs: Similar in texture and flavor, beef short ribs can be used as an alternative to oxtail.
   • Beef Chuck Roast: Cubed chuck roast can work well in the stew, though it may require longer cooking to tenderize.
   • Lamb: For a different flavor profile, you can use lamb shanks or stew meat.
2. Vegetable Additions:
   • Sweet Potatoes: Adds sweetness and a hearty texture to the stew.
   • Pumpkin or Squash: Cubed pumpkin or squash adds a colorful element and sweetness.
3. Flavor Enhancements:
   • Jerk Seasoning: Add Jamaican jerk seasoning for a spicy and aromatic kick.
   • Coconut Milk: Substitute part of the broth with coconut milk for a creamier texture and tropical flavor.
   • Guinness or Stout Beer: Adds depth and richness to the stew's sauce.
4. Spices and Herbs:
   • Scotch Bonnet Pepper: For those who enjoy heat, add chopped scotch bonnet pepper for spice.
   • Allspice: Ground allspice is a key spice in Caribbean cooking and can enhance the stew's flavor.
   • Bay Leaves: Adds a subtle herbal note to the stew.
5. Cooking Methods:
   • Slow Cooker: Instead of cooking on the stovetop, you can prepare the stew in a slow cooker for convenience.
   • Pressure Cooker: Use an Instant Pot or pressure cooker for faster cooking without compromising flavor.

Additional Cooking Considerations and Tips for Making Oxtail Stew

Trim your oxtail if they contain excess fat

Be careful when handling the chili peppers. Habanero/scotch bonnet chilis are super high on the heat scale so use gloves when handling. Otherwise, if you're okay with a more mild flavor do not cut open the chilis. Instead, just poke/cut slits into the sides of the peppers. Just remember to remove the peppers during the cooking process before it disintegrates into the oxtail stew.

I marinated the oxtail overnight, but if you don't have the time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

I like my oxtail stew with very tender pieces, but not overly tender as in "fall of the bone" tender. What I mean by that is I don't want my meat mashed potato soft but have a lil chew to them.

Braised Beef Oxtail Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you have to soak oxtail before cooking?

Yes, but not long. I more or less clean my oxtail in a combination of water and lime juice to remove any impurities. But don't mistake soaking for allowing the oxtail to sit in water overnight.

Do you have to brown oxtail before cooking?

You brown for as long as it take to brown all sides of the oxtail. This can take anywhere from 5 minutes to 10 depending on size of the oxtail.

How many hours does it take to cook beef oxtail?

Beef oxtail is going to take you a few good hours to cook to desired tenderness. This is definitely not a rush job or fast cook recipe. Plan for 2 ½ hrs at least and up to 4 hours depending on size.

What sides go with oxtail?

I tender to like greens-based sides like cabbage, collard greens, mustard greens, etc. and/or starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes, coconut rice, grits, etc.

What cut of meat is oxtail?

Today, most oxtail recipes use the tail of a cow vs. an actual ox. You'd be hard pressed to find actual oxen-based oxtail.

For other oxtail or slow-braised beef recipes try these:

Mexican Braised Oxtail

Instant Pot Jamaican Oxtail

Instant Pot Cuban Oxtail

Braised Beef Neck Bones

Braised Beef Neck Bones Sandwich

Braised Beef Short Ribs

Guyanese Pepperpot

Beef Oxtail Soup

Southern Smothered Oxtail

Making Oxtail Stew

As we savor the last notes of this culinary composition, the Caribbean Style Oxtail recipe, I invite you to revel in the symphony of flavors we've created together. Just like in music, where every note counts, every spice and aroma in this dish plays a crucial role in the harmony of taste.

The slow-cooked tenderness of the oxtails, infused with the essence of the Caribbean, leaves a lingering melody on the palate that resonates with the soul. Whether you're a seasoned culinary artist or a kitchen virtuoso in the making, may this recipe inspire you to continue exploring the diverse and soulful world of Caribbean cuisine

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