Growing up, oxtail stew was one of those soul-warming dishes that brought everyone to the table.

The smell alone—meaty, rich, and spiced with thyme, garlic, and browning sauce—would fill the entire house and make your mouth water long before dinner was served.

This Jamaican oxtail stew is slow-cooked to perfection, with tender fall-off-the-bone meat and a velvety brown gravy enriched with butter beans.

It’s the kind of comfort food that tastes even better the next day and is always worth the wait.

This stew combines tender, slow-cooked oxtails with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, creating a depth of flavor that will transport you straight to Jamaica.

It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

Imagine the richness of the oxtail, falling off the bone and infused with the essence of thyme, garlic, and the distinct heat of Scotch bonnet peppers.

The delightful balance of spices in this Jamaican Oxtail Stew creates an unforgettable dining experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

The slow cooking process is what makes the stew so special, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

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Here’s Why You’ll Love My Jamaican Oxtail Stew

This oxtail stew is the definition of rich, hearty, and satisfying. Each piece of oxtail is browned for maximum flavor and then simmered slowly in a deeply seasoned broth until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender.

The butter beans soak up all that savory goodness, and the thick, silky gravy clings to every bite.

Whether it’s your first time trying oxtail or you’re already a fan, this dish is bound to become a favorite.

Exploring Jamaican Oxtail Stew

The essence of Caribbean cuisine comes alive in the delightful combination of flavors found in Jamaican Oxtail Stew.

This dish highlights tender pieces of oxtail, simmered to perfection in a savory blend of spices and vegetables.

As the oxtail cooks slowly, it absorbs the aromatic ingredients, creating a rich and hearty stew.

The vibrant colors of carrots and bell peppers add a fresh touch, making this dish as visually appealing as it is satisfying.

Whether it’s served at a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, Jamaican Oxtail Stew brings warmth and comfort to the table.

It’s a dish that invites everyone to savor every bite and enjoy the culinary journey to Jamaica.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The foundation of this Jamaican Oxtail Stew lies in its high-quality ingredients. Each component contributes to the stew’s depth of flavor and overall character.

Starting with the oxtail, the rich meat becomes incredibly tender after hours of slow cooking.

This slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a satisfying mouthfeel.

Vegetables like carrots and bell peppers provide not only color but also sweetness that balances the heat from spices such as the Scotch bonnet pepper.

The combination of fresh thyme and garlic enhances the aromatic profile, ensuring each spoonful is bursting with flavor.

The Cooking Process

Preparing Jamaican Oxtail Stew is a rewarding experience that unfolds with each step. It begins with browning the oxtail, which seals in the juices and adds a rich caramelization that enhances the stew’s flavor.

Next, sautéing the onions and garlic creates a fragrant base that elevates the dish. Once the oxtail rejoins the pot alongside the vegetables and spices, the magic begins as everything simmers together.

The slow cooking phase is crucial, allowing the oxtail to break down and absorb the various flavors.

This process not only tenderizes the meat but also allows the ingredients to complement one another fully.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Oxtail Stew is traditionally served over fluffy white rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce and makes for a filling meal.

For those seeking a heartier option, consider pairing the stew with dumplings or even mashed potatoes, allowing for a creative twist on serving this classic dish.

Garnishing the stew with chopped green onions adds a fresh note that brightens the rich flavors, making each serving not only appealing but also inviting.

A side of steamed cabbage, plantains, or fried dumplings complements the richness beautifully. If you’re looking for a full Caribbean plate, pair it with callaloo and a splash of Scotch bonnet pepper sauce on the side.

Nutrition and Health Considerations

This dish is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. With approximately 450 calories per serving, Jamaican Oxtail Stew provides a hearty meal that can satisfy your cravings without overwhelming your dietary goals.

With a good source of protein from the oxtail and added fiber from the vegetables and beans, it supports a balanced diet.

However, it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially considering the fat content from the oxtail.

Overall, Jamaican Oxtail Stew is a wholesome dish that can be enjoyed as part of a varied diet, offering comfort and flavor with each bite.

Cultural Significance of Oxtail Stew

Jamaican Oxtail Stew is steeped in cultural heritage, representing the heart of Caribbean cooking.

This dish often finds its way onto tables during special occasions and family gatherings, showcasing the importance of community and sharing.

In Jamaica, oxtail has become a beloved staple, embracing influences from African, Spanish, and British cuisines.

The method of slow cooking captures the essence of traditional practices, where meals are prepared with care and served with love.

By enjoying Jamaican Oxtail Stew, you are not just indulging in a meal, but also participating in a rich culinary tradition that connects people to their roots and to each other.

Tips for the Best Jamaican Oxtail Stew

Start by browning your oxtail well—that’s where the flavor begins. Let the stew cook low and slow to fully break down the connective tissue and create that signature silky texture.

Use fresh thyme and Scotch bonnet pepper for authentic flavor, but remove the pepper before serving if you don’t want too much heat.

A touch of browning sauce adds depth and color to the gravy, so don’t skip it!

Jamaican Oxtail Stew – Rich, Tender, & Full of Island Flavor
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Jamaican Oxtail Stew – Rich, Tender, & Full of Island Flavor

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: JamaicanDifficulty: Intermediate
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Calories

300

kcal
Cooking time

3

hours

This Jamaican Oxtail Stew features succulent pieces of oxtail simmered in a savory sauce with a combination of spices, vegetables, and beans. The result is a hearty, comforting dish with a rich, slightly spicy flavor profile. It’s perfect served over rice or with dumplings.

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds oxtail, trimmed

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning or beef seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 3 stalks green onion (scallions), chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup

  • 1 tablespoon browning sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 4 cups beef broth or water

  • 1 can (15 ounces) butter beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar

  • Optional: 2 carrots, sliced

Directions

  • Season the Oxtail
  • Rinse and pat dry the oxtail. In a large bowl, season with salt, black pepper, all-purpose seasoning, and paprika. Massage the seasonings into the meat and let sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).
  • Brown the Oxtail
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtail pieces on all sides in batches. Remove and set aside.
  • Build the Flavor Base
  • In the same pot, sauté onion, green onion, garlic, and ginger until softened. Add browning sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar. Stir well.
  • Simmer the Stew
  • Return the oxtail to the pot. Add beef broth (or water) to cover the meat. Add thyme, Scotch bonnet pepper, and carrots (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender.
  • Add the Butter Beans
  • In the final 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the butter beans and continue simmering uncovered to thicken the gravy slightly. Discard the Scotch bonnet pepper and thyme stems before serving.
  • Serve and Enjoy
  • Serve hot over rice, garnished with extra green onion or thyme if desired.

Notes

  • Oxtail is rich and fatty, so you can skim some fat off the top after cooking or chilling if you prefer a lighter dish.
  • For extra richness, you can substitute half of the water with coconut milk or add a splash of wine to the broth.
  • This stew tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
A hearty serving of Jamaican Oxtail Stew with oxtail pieces, carrots, and rice, surrounded by spices on a wooden table.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

Store leftover oxtail stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm slowly on the stove over medium-low heat or in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy.