Cooking oxtails on the stovetop is a great way to prepare flavorful and hearty meals for your family and friends. Not only are oxtails packed with exceptional taste, but they’re also relatively inexpensive to purchase. Plus, many of the steps involved in preparing delicious and succulent oxtails can be done ahead of time which makes them even easier to cook. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through each step needed to help you master how to cook oxtails on the stovetop – from marinating the ingredients overnight to sautéing them all together until they reach mouth-watering perfection.
Contents
- 1 Understanding The Definition
- 2 How To Prepare The Oxtails?
- 3 How To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop?
- 4 How Long To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop?
- 5 What Affect Time To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop?
- 6 Benefits To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop
- 7 Tips And Tricks For Cooking Oxtails On The Stovetop
- 8 What Are Different Recipes With Oxtails?
- 9 What Side Dish To Serve Your Oxtails With?
- 10 What Are Drinks To Have With Oxtails?
- 11 Conclusion: How To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop
- 12 FAQs: Cook Oxtail
- 12.1 Can you fry cook oxtail?
- 12.2 Why are my cook oxtail not tender?
- 12.3 What is the best way to eat cook oxtail?
- 12.4 Do you boil oxtail before cooking?
- 12.5 Do you have to soak oxtails before cooking?
- 12.6 Why is cook oxtail bad for you?
- 12.7 How long does it take for cook oxtail to soften?
- 12.8 Why do my cook oxtail taste bitter?
- 12.9 How do you know when cook oxtail is done?
- 12.10 Should I soak cook oxtail in vinegar?
- 12.11 Do you eat the bone in cook oxtail?
Understanding The Definition
What Is Oxtails?
Before learning about how to cook oxtails on the stovetop, we should learn about the basics. Oxtails are sections of the cow’s tail that contain bone, cartilage, and tendons. When cooked correctly, oxtails can be extremely tender and flavorful. They often have a rich beefy flavor which is why they’re so popular in stew-like dishes with vegetables or other proteins such as beans or grains.
What Is Oxtails?
What Is The Nutrients Of Oxtails?
Oxtails are a great source of many essential nutrients such as protein, iron and zinc. They’re also high in vitamins A, B-12, D and K. The fat content of oxtails is relatively low which makes them a great choice for those watching their diet or working to lose weight.
How To Prepare The Oxtails?
Before you start cooking the oxtails, be sure to give them a thorough rinse and then pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help to remove any residual dirt or debris that may have stuck to them. Once they’re clean, prepare your marinade by combining your choice of herbs and spices along with some oil, vinegar and other liquids. Place the oxtails in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them, making sure that they’re completely covered. Allow them to marinade overnight for maximum flavor.
How To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop?
So how to cook oxtails on the stovetop? Please follow our instruction:
- Start by marinating the oxtails. The night before you cook them, season with salt and pepper and add whatever herbs or spices you like (garlic, rosemary, oregano are all great options). Let the oxtails sit overnight in the refrigerator to absorb all those yummy flavors.
- When ready to cook, remove the oxtails from the marinade and pat them dry. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with some oil, then add the oxtails and brown on each side for about 5 minutes.
- Once browned, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the oxtails simmer in their own juices (or a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth) for 2-3 hours, checking every 30 minutes to ensure nothing is burning.
- Once the oxtails are tender and cooked through, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes or so until all the liquid has evaporated and the oxtails have reached your desired level of crispiness.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dish and enjoy.
How Long To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop?
The amount of time required to cook oxtails on the stovetop depends largely on how thick the pieces are. Generally speaking, it will take anywhere from 1-2 hours for thinner cuts and 3-4 hours for thicker cuts. To ensure that they are cooked evenly throughout, be sure to move them around as needed while cooking.
What Affect Time To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop?
The amount of time it takes to cook oxtails on the stovetop can be affected by several factors. The size and thickness of the pieces, the heat being used, and the type of pot or pan being used can all have an impact. Additionally, how frequently they are stirred and moved around while cooking can also play a role in determining how long it takes for the oxtails to be ready.
Benefits To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop
Cooking oxtails on the stovetop provides a wide range of benefits. The process is relatively simple and can be done with just a few ingredients. Additionally, it allows for an added depth of flavor compared to other cooking methods. Here are some of the main advantages that come with cooking oxtails on the stovetop:
- Flavor: Cooking oxtails on the stovetop allows you to bring out more of the delicious flavor that these cuts of meat offer. This is due to the caramelization and browning process that occurs when they are cooked slowly over time.
- Convenience: Stovetop cooking is one of the most convenient ways to cook oxtails. You don’t need any special equipment, and the process is quite simple.
- Quick results: As opposed to other methods of cooking oxtails that can take hours, stovetop cooking provides quick results. This means you can have a delicious meal in no time at all!
- Economical: Stovetop cooking is an economical way to enjoy quality oxtails. By cooking them yourself, you can save money on expensive cuts of meat.
Tips And Tricks For Cooking Oxtails On The Stovetop
- To ensure that your oxtails stay as tender as possible, make sure you don’t overcook them. Check periodically throughout the cooking process to make sure they’re not getting too dry or tough.
- If you want your oxtails to have a deeper flavor, add some beef stock or red wine to the marinade before letting them sit overnight.
- To make cleaning up easier, line the bottom of your skillet with aluminum foil before adding the oxtails. This will help prevent them from sticking to the pan and make it much easier to clean up afterward.
- To add even more flavor to your oxtails, try adding diced vegetables such as onions or carrots during the last hour of cooking.
- If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using boneless oxtail meat instead of bone-in oxtails. Boneless oxtail meat is leaner and contains less fat, making it a great option for those looking to watch their calorie intake.
Knowing how to cook oxtails on the stovetop doesn’t have to be intimidating or time-consuming – all you need is a bit of patience and a few tips and tricks to make sure your meal turns out as delicious and flavorful as possible. Give it a try today and see what amazing creations you can come up with.
What Are Different Recipes With Oxtails?
Once you’ve mastered cooking oxtails on the stovetop, why not try experimenting with different recipes? Try adding some bold flavors like Asian spices or BBQ sauce to give your oxtail dish an extra kick of flavor. With a little bit of creativity, you can come up with some truly unique and delicious dishes that will have your family and friends raving.

What Side Dish To Serve Your Oxtails With?
Not sure what side dish to serve your oxtails with? Consider adding some rice or potatoes on the side – both of these absorb all the delicious flavors from the oxtail sauce and add a nice balance of carbs to the meal. You could also pair your oxtails with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a creamy mashed potato dish. No matter what you choose, your guests will be sure to love the flavor combination.

What Are Drinks To Have With Oxtails?
After knowing how to cook oxtails on the stovetop, when it comes to drinks, a nice malty beer or dark red wine are perfect for pairing with oxtails. The bitterness of the beer helps to complement the rich flavors of the meat while the tannins in the wine help to cut through any of the fat. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter and sweeter, try a light lager or a fruity white wine. No matter what you decide, your oxtails are sure to be the star of the meal.
Conclusion: How To Cook Oxtails On The Stovetop
Oxtails are an incredibly flavorful and economical cut of beef that can be used for so many different recipes. From stews to salads, there’s an oxtail dish out there for everyone. With a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to master the art of cooking oxtails on the stovetop in no time. Whether you’re serving them up for dinner or bringing them to a potluck, these delicious dishes will have everyone coming back for more. So grab an oxtail and get cooking. Thank you for reading “How to cook oxtails on the stovetop?”.
FAQs: Cook Oxtail
Can you fry cook oxtail?
Dredge the oxtail pieces in a seasoned flour mixture (regular flour with a pinch of salt and pepper) and fry them in batches until they turn a golden brown, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Then, transfer the browned oxtail pieces into the bowl of a slow cooker.
Why are my cook oxtail not tender?
Braising is typically done at around 200 degrees F (93 C) to achieve the desired tenderness within a reasonable time frame. If your oxtails haven’t become tender after the 5 hours of cooking, it’s possible that your slow cooker’s low setting isn’t providing enough heat.
What is the best way to eat cook oxtail?
This dish is best savored in a relaxed environment, as the preferred method of devouring oxtail is to grasp the bones with your fingers and savor every morsel of meat. Oxtail is always reasonably priced. For my stew, I purchased six to seven ounces per person.
Do you boil oxtail before cooking?
Add enough water to cover the oxtails and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover, and simmer until the oxtails are tender, which usually takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
Do you have to soak oxtails before cooking?
Begin by soaking the oxtail in cold water for 1 hour to cleanse it of any impurities. Then, transfer it to a pan of fresh water and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. The process of soaking and blanching the oxtail ensures that it cooks evenly and results in tender, succulent meat. To achieve the desired texture, it is important to cook the oxtail slowly over a prolonged period.
Why is cook oxtail bad for you?
Consuming oxtail, like other red meats, can contribute to high cholesterol and saturated fat intake. As a result, it is advisable to consume oxtail in moderation, particularly for individuals with cardiac conditions.
How long does it take for cook oxtail to soften?
The ideal method depends on your preference. If you opt for the Crockpot, it requires minimal effort as you don’t need to worry about pot boiling over. However, it does take a longer time of 8-10 hours. On the other hand, cooking oxtails on the stove takes at least 3 hours, but it requires more attention in the pan.
Why do my cook oxtail taste bitter?
If the oxtails burn in the pot, it will result in a bitter taste in the soup. Before adding them to the soup, make sure to trim any excess fat from the oxtails. Additionally, if you find the soup too oily, you can skim the fat from the top. By following these steps, you can enhance the quality and flavor of the soup while ensuring a delightful dining experience.
How do you know when cook oxtail is done?
Slow-cooked oxtail requires six to eight hours on low heat or approximately four hours on high. It’s ready when the meat tenderly falls off the bone, but you can also verify the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Enhance the flavor by adding extra seasoning, such as salt, to your personal preference.
Should I soak cook oxtail in vinegar?
To cleanse oxtails using vinegar, employ white distilled vinegar for rinsing the oxtails. Submerge the oxtails in vinegar for roughly 5 minutes. Proceed to drain the oxtails and rinse them with cold water. This process aids in the elimination of any traces of blood from the oxtails while simultaneously tenderizing them.
Do you eat the bone in cook oxtail?
The meat is most enjoyable when savored by picking up the succulent pieces with your hands and savoring every bite, relishing the joy of gnawing on the bones. The use of a knife and fork is purely optional, allowing for a more primal and satisfying experience. Personally, I have an immense fondness for oxtail in all its variations, but there is a special place in my heart for the bone-in kind that truly captures my culinary delight.

Michael J. Fanola is the chef and owner of Joe’s French Italian Inn Restaurants. He has over 30 years of culinary experience, and his restaurants have been voted “Best Italian Restaurant” by the readers of the Staten Island Advance for many years in a row. Michael is a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, and he has worked in some of the most highly acclaimed kitchens in the country.