Traditional British-Style Oxtail Stew: Hearty, Rich & Comforting

This British-style Oxtail Stew is the perfect comfort food—rich, deeply flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender. Slow-simmered with aromatic vegetables and a savory broth, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for chilly nights or cozy family dinners.

For the best flavor and nutrition, we recommend using grass-fed, grass-finished oxtail, like the ones available in our beef shares and specialty bundles.

Ingredients

3 lbs oxtail, trimmed of excess fat

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp tallow

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, peeled and sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

2 tbsp tomato paste

4 cups beef broth

2 cups water

2 bay leaves

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

2 potatoes, peeled and cubed

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method

Brown the Oxtail

• Generously season oxtail pieces with salt and black pepper.
• Heat tallow in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
• Sear the oxtail on all sides in batches, developing a deep golden-brown crust.
• Remove the browned oxtail and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
• Add carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to develop depth of flavor.

Simmer the Stew

• Return the oxtail to the pot.
• Pour in beef broth and water, then add bay leaves, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat.
• Cover and simmer for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally and skimming off any excess fat.

Add Potatoes & Finish Cooking

• Once oxtail is tender and falling off the bone, add cubed potatoes.
• Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, allowing the stew to thicken slightly.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Why Choose Grass-Fed Oxtail?

Grass-fed, grass-finished oxtail is:

✔ More flavorful & nutrient-dense than conventionally raised beef

✔ Packed with collagen & gelatin, supporting joint and gut health

✔ Free from hormones & antibiotics, sourced sustainably

Looking for pasture-raised oxtail in Hawaii? Our beef shares and specialty bundles include premium cuts perfect for this dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Oxtail Stew

1. Browning is key: A deep sear enhances the stew’s flavor.

2. Low & slow: Cooking on low heat for hours ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth oxtail.

3. Skim the broth: Removing excess fat keeps the stew balanced and rich.