The moment I cracked open the jar of browning sauce, the rich, caramelized aroma enveloped my kitchen, igniting a whirlwind of memories from sun-soaked Jamaican summers. This Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming embrace of flavor that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Kingston. I discovered this soul-satisfying dish after a long day, yearning for something comforting and hearty that wasn’t just another fast-food fix.
With tender oxtail simmered to perfection in a medley of spices, vegetables, and a hint of scotch bonnet pepper, every bite speaks of warmth and tradition. The beauty of this stew lies not only in its deep, savory flavor but also in its ability to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. So grab your apron and let’s start crafting this mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s palate, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast!
Why is Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew a Must-Try?
Rich, complex flavors: Each spoonful bursts with spices that create an unforgettable taste experience.
Unforgettable aroma: The browning sauce brings a deep, caramelized scent that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Shared tradition: This stew holds the legacy of Jamaican cooking, perfect for family gatherings or impressing guests.
Crowd-pleasing dish: It’s a sure way to impress anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals.
Versatile pairing: Whether served over rice and peas or with plantains, this stew adapts beautifully to your favorite sides.
Try this comforting dish today and explore how easy it is to make something extraordinary with a little love and patience!
Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew Ingredients
For the Stew
• 4 lbs fresh beef oxtail – make sure it’s cut into pieces for even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon browning sauce – adds a rich, caramelized flavor to your stew.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – enhances umami and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar – provides a subtle sweetness that balances spice.
• 1 teaspoon Jamaican curry powder – introduces warmth with a vibrant hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon Jamaican ground allspice – gives a warming, aromatic component.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a touch of smokiness to round out flavors.
• kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper – to taste, enhancing all the ingredients.
For the Aromatics
• 1 medium white onion, chopped – the base for flavoring your stew beautifully.
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste) – infuses your stew with a rich depth.
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger (or ginger paste) – adds a zesty kick to the mix.
• 4 scallions, chopped – contributes a subtle onion flavor that brightens the dish.
For the Sauce and Vegetables
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for searing the beef to perfection.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – thickens the stew and intensifies tomato flavor.
• 3 medium carrots, chopped – provides sweetness and a beautiful color contrast.
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce – enriches the stew with a luscious texture.
• 2 bay leaves – infuses aromatic notes during simmering.
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, left whole – adds authentic heat without overpowering.
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme – offers a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with oxtail.
• 4 cups beef broth – forms the hearty base of your stew.
• 1 (14-ounce) can butter beans, liquid drained – contributes creaminess and a protein boost.
Dive into this recipe for Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew and savor the love and flavors from each ingredient used!
How to Make Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew
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Marinate the Oxtail: In a large bowl or ziplock bag, combine the oxtail pieces with browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, allspice, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, ginger, and scallions. Massage well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
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Sear the Oxtail: Shake off excess marinade from the oxtail and set aside. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add a few oxtail pieces and sear until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and repeat until all pieces are browned.
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Sauté the Marinade: Add the reserved marinade and tomato paste to the pot, stirring and sautéing until lightly tender, scraping any caramelized bits from the bottom, about 4-5 minutes. Return the browned oxtail pieces to the pot with any collected juices.
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Simmer with Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, tomato sauce, bay leaves, whole scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and beef broth, making sure the oxtail is nearly submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 2 – 2 1/2 hours until the meat is tender and falling apart.
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Add the Butter Beans: Gently fold in the drained butter beans and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the beans are tender.
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Final Touches: Discard the herb stems, bay leaves, and the scotch bonnet pepper. If desired, skim off excess fat and thicken the stew by cooking over medium-high heat until it reaches your preferred consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Serve with Love: Serve the stew in shallow bowls with extra gravy. It pairs beautifully with rice and peas, and sweet plantains for a true Jamaican experience.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped scallions for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew?
Every bite of this luscious stew deserves sides that complement its rich, soulful flavors and tender meat.
- Rice and Peas: A classic Jamaican staple, providing a fragrant and slightly nutty balance to the stew’s depth.
- Fried Plantains: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory notes, offering a delightful contrast that everyone loves.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing, it adds a coolness to the dish, contrasting the hearty warmth of the oxtail.
- Cornbread: Its slightly sweet, fluffy texture makes for a perfect dipper in the luscious stew broth, soaking up every drop.
- Coconut Rice: Light and aromatic, it enhances the tropical vibe of the meal, melding beautifully with the oxtail’s spices.
- Mango Salsa: Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this salsa provides a lovely contrast and cuts through the richness of the stew.
- Bitter Greens: Lightly sautéed or steamed, greens like kale or collard greens balance out the heavier elements and add nutrition.
- Ginger Beer: A sweet, bubbly beverage that pairs beautifully with the spice of the stew, offering a refreshing cleanse.
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake: This sweet dessert is a perfect way to round off the meal, providing a fruity, light finish.
Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this delightful dish!
- Spicy Twist: Add extra chopped scotch bonnet pepper for an extra kick. Just be cautious; a little goes a long way!
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition. They’ll meld beautifully into the stew.
- Herb Fusion: Substitute fresh thyme with fresh parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile. It’ll brighten up the dish!
- Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut cream towards the end for a creamy, tropical twist. It adds a lush richness that complements the spices.
- Sweet Potatoes: Replace carrots with sweet potatoes for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory oxtail. Their creaminess will elevate the dish.
- Beans Variation: Swap butter beans for black beans or chickpeas for variety. They’ll contribute different textures and flavors to the stew.
- Umami Surprise: Include a tablespoon of miso paste when simmering for an extra layer of umami depth. It’s a simple way to amp up the rich flavors.
- Smoky Option: Introduce smoked paprika instead of regular for deeper, smoky notes that enhance the overall taste.
Explore these enticing variations, and make this Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew your very own!
How to Store and Freeze Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen oxtail stew, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat thoroughly prior to serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the stew if it thickens too much; stir well and enjoy the authentic flavors again!
Make Ahead Options
These Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the oxtail pieces up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the spices to deeply infuse the meat for an even more flavorful dish. Simply combine the oxtail with the marinade ingredients, massage well, and refrigerate overnight. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics and prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, add the seared oxtail and broth, simmer for a couple of hours, and finish by adding the butter beans for a wholesome, comforting meal that will feel loved and homemade without the last-minute rush!
Tips for the Best Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew
Marination Matters: Allow the oxtail to marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion. Skipping this step could lead to a less flavorful stew.
Proper Searing: Make sure to sear the oxtail pieces in batches. Overcrowding the pot can result in steaming instead of browning, which diminishes the taste.
Adjust the Heat: Keep the scotch bonnet whole to control the heat level. If you want more spice, feel free to slice it open during cooking.
Check for Tenderness: The oxtail should be tender and falling apart after simmering. Don’t rush this step! Cooking it low and slow enriches the flavors beautifully.
Finishing Touches: Always taste before serving; sometimes, a little more salt or pepper can elevate the overall flavor of your Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew.
Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting oxtail?
Absolutely! When selecting oxtail, look for pieces that are well-rounded with a good amount of meat and some fat on them, as this adds flavor. Avoid pieces that have dark spots all over or look dried out. Fresh oxtail should be pinkish-red and have a slight sheen.
How should I store leftovers of the oxtail stew?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in the fridge to avoid condensation. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I freeze my oxtail stew?
Of course! To freeze your Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. This way, you can savor that delicious flavor whenever you want!
How do I properly thaw and reheat frozen stew?
Absolutely! To thaw your frozen oxtail stew, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat it gently in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Stir well and heat until bubbling, ensuring it’s heated through for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Definitely! This stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. You can make it a day in advance, allow it to cool, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re preparing this stew for guests, it’s important to note that it contains beef, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with beef allergies. Additionally, the scotch bonnet pepper can be quite spicy for some palates. If you’re serving children or those sensitive to heat, you might want to keep it whole or substitute with a milder pepper.
Savor Authentic Jamaican Oxtail Stew Like Grandma Made
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the oxtail: Combine the oxtail with browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, curry powder, allspice, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, ginger, and scallions. Massage well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Sear the oxtail: Shake off excess marinade and set aside. In a pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat, sear oxtail pieces until browned, then remove.
- Sauté the marinade: Add reserved marinade and tomato paste to the pot, stirring until lightly tender, then return oxtail pieces.
- Simmer with vegetables: Stir in carrots, tomato sauce, bay leaves, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and beef broth, cover, and simmer for 2-2.5 hours.
- Add the butter beans: Gently fold in the butter beans and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Final touches: Discard herb stems, bay leaves, scotch bonnet pepper, adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve with love: Serve the stew in shallow bowls with extra gravy, pairing beautifully with rice and peas and sweet plantains.