African-Style Oxtail Stew
African-style oxtail stew is a rich and flavorful dish that is popular in many African countries. The dish is made with oxtails, which are the tail of a cow, and is slow-cooked with a variety of spices and vegetables to create a hearty and satisfying stew. This dish is a beloved comfort food in many African households and is often served at special occasions and gatherings.
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
3 hrs 15 mins
Total Time:
3 hrs 35 mins
Servings:
6
Yield:
6 servings
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Place celery, garlic, tomato paste, bouillon cubes, and water into a large Dutch oven; stir until the tomato paste has dissolved. Add peppercorns and bay leaves, place over medium heat and bring to a simmer.
Step 2
Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oxtail and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove oxtail from hot oil and place into Dutch oven. Pour out all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the skillet, reduce heat to medium, and cook the onion until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes; add to oxtail.
Step 3
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 2 1/2 hours. Season with salt and pepper, recover, and continue to cook until the oxtail is tender, but not falling off of the bone, about 30 minutes.
Step 4
Remove oxtail pieces and place into a serving dish. Add kidney beans to Dutch oven and return to a simmer. Thicken with cornstarch dissolved in water, simmer for 1 minute until thickened and clear. Pour sauce over the oxtail.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
669
Calories
32g
Fat
23g
Carbs
74g
Protein
Complement
The key to a delicious African-style oxtail stew is the long, slow cooking process, which allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful. The oxtails are typically browned in a pot to create a deep, caramelized flavor, and then simmered for several hours with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices such as thyme, bay leaves, and paprika. The result is a rich and hearty stew that is often served with rice, potatoes, or a crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Whether enjoyed at a family dinner or a festive celebration, African-style oxtail stew is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the diverse and vibrant flavors of African cuisine.
