Transform Tough Oxtails into a Delectable Feast: The Ultimate Crock Pot Cooking Guide

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more? Oxtails, with their rich, meaty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, are the perfect choice for a slow-cooked meal that will warm you up from the inside out. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the art of “how to cook oxtails crock pot,” providing you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to create an unforgettable dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients at hand:

• 2-3 pounds of oxtails, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can of beef broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Prepare the Oxtails

Rinse the oxtails thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps remove any impurities and ensures even browning.

Brown the Oxtails

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oxtails and brown them on all sides. This step helps develop flavor and create a rich exterior.

Sauté the Vegetables

Transfer the browned oxtails to a slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Pour the tomato sauce, beef broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

Cook in the Crock Pot

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook the oxtails, the more tender they will become.

Thicken the Sauce

Once the oxtails are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and set them aside. Strain the sauce into a medium saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. If desired, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Return the oxtails to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat through. Serve the oxtails over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and enjoy the rich, savory flavor that will leave you wanting more.

Tips for Cooking Oxtails Crock Pot

• Use a Dutch oven or a large skillet: Brown the oxtails in a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet to develop a flavorful crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker: Allow the oxtails to have enough space to cook evenly and release their juices.
• Add vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes can be added to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Check the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles are all excellent accompaniments to oxtails.

Variations on Oxtails Crock Pot

• Red wine oxtails: Add a cup of red wine to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
• Spicy oxtails: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Barbecue oxtails: Brush the oxtails with your favorite barbecue sauce before cooking.
• Asian oxtails: Add soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.

What You Need to Learn

Q: How long can I store oxtails in the refrigerator?
A: Raw oxtails can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cooked oxtails can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use frozen oxtails in the slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can use frozen oxtails in the slow cooker. However, you may need to add an extra hour or two to the cooking time.

Q: What is the best way to reheat oxtails?
A: The best way to reheat oxtails is in the slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours, or in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-45 minutes.