Oxtail Recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew

I’ve learned that a truly nourishing meal doesn’t have to be complicated, especially on busy weeknights. This deep red pepper stew, with its rich aroma and meltingly tender oxtail, is a perfect example. This oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew offers incredible depth of flavor and hearty nutrition, ideal for family-friendly dinners or a comforting solo meal. It’s a healthy dinner recipe that comes together with minimal fuss, leaving more time for what truly matters.

Ingredient Essentials With Health Focus

• 2-3 lbs oxtail (about 1-1.5 kg), cut into sections (for rich flavor and tender meat). Ask your butcher to cut sections for easier handling.
• 2 large red bell peppers (approx 300g), chopped (sweetness, vibrant color, vitamin C). Use 1 large jar (12 oz/340g) roasted red peppers, drained, for a smoky depth.
• 1 large onion (approx 200g), chopped (aromatic base).
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tbsp) (depth of flavor).
• 1 (28 oz/794g) can crushed tomatoes (tangy body for the stew).
• 2 cups beef broth (about 470ml) (liquid base). Use chicken broth or water if that’s what’s on hand; adjust seasoning.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (about 30ml) (for browning). Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Spices: 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cumin, salt and pepper to taste.

Opt for organic oxtail for a cleaner choice, supporting healthy eating. Add extra veggies like carrots or celery (approx 1 cup/150g each) for added nutrients, making it a more complete meal, and a richer oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew. Use low-sodium beef broth for a heart-healthy option, fitting into easy dinner ideas. Naturally thicken with a spoonful of tomato paste or by blending a portion of the stew. Look for quality oxtail from your local butcher or supermarket meat counter for the best results in your oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process for Your Oxtail Recipe

This oxtail recipe focuses on slow cooking to transform tough cuts into incredibly tender meat. Follow these steps for a rich, satisfying oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep recipes, as flavors deepen overnight.

1. Brown the Oxtail (10-15 min): Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season oxtail liberally with salt and pepper. Brown all sides until deeply golden and caramelized; you’ll hear a good sizzle. Remove oxtail and set aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics (5-7 min): Add chopped onion and red bell peppers to the same pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly translucent; they’ll smell sweet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant; a lovely garlic aroma will rise.
3. Build the Stew Base: Stir in smoked paprika and cumin, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant; spices will bloom and smell toasted. Deglaze with a splash of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This adds immense flavor.
4. Combine & Simmer: Return the browned oxtail to the pot. Add crushed tomatoes and the remaining beef broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, where you see small bubbles around the edges.
5. Slow Cook (2.5-3.5 hours): Cover the pot tightly with a lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 2.5-3.5 hours, or until the oxtail is fork-tender and falling off the bone; the meat will pull away easily. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the stew looks too thick or dry during cooking, I often add an extra ½ cup (120ml) of beef broth to maintain a good consistency. (Pressure cooker option: Cook on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, then natural release.) Cook until the oxtail is fork-tender for a perfect oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew.

• Hacks for faster cooking: Utilize an Instant Pot or pressure cooker to drastically reduce cooking time, making this a quicker healthy dinner recipe and enabling you to enjoy your oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew sooner.
• Prep veggies (chop onions, peppers, mince garlic) ahead of time for quick assembly on cooking day.

• Quick “avoid mistakes” callouts: Don’t rush browning the oxtail – this step builds essential deep flavor for your oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew.
• Ensure liquid fully covers the oxtail during slow cooking for maximum tenderness and even cooking.

Best Occasions & Serving Suggestions

This rich oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, impressive Sunday suppers, or as a hearty meal prep option for office lunches. Its robust flavor makes it ideal for healthy eating and family dinners.

• Classic pairings: Creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice to soak up the rich sauce.
• Veggies: Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a simple side salad provide a fresh contrast.
• Toppings: Fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a healthy twist), or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Store cooled oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until piping hot.

Functional Benefits of This Oxtail Recipe

• Energy Boost & Satiety: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this oxtail recipe provides sustained energy and keeps you full longer, making it great for weight loss meal prep.
• Family-Friendly & Comforting: A hearty, flavorful dish that appeals to all ages, ideal for a wholesome family dinner.
• Protein Advantage: Oxtail is a fantastic source of collagen and protein, supporting muscle health and overall well-being.
• This healthy dinner recipe offers a rich source of nutrients, fitting perfectly into gluten-free dinner ideas.

Budget & Time Efficiency

Prep Time: 20 minutes. Cook Time: 2.5-3.5 hours (stovetop) or 60-75 minutes (pressure cooker). This makes it a great option for meal prep recipes.

Expect to pay around $4-6 per serving, depending on oxtail price and local availability. When oxtail is expensive, I’ve found bone-in beef short ribs to be an excellent, similar-tasting swap for this deep red pepper stew.

Prepare a large batch of this oxtail recipe on the weekend. It stores wonderfully, providing easy, delicious, and healthy meals throughout the busy week.

Ingredient Shopping & Premium Picks

Oxtail can be found at local butcher shops, well-stocked ethnic grocery stores, larger supermarkets, or through online grocery delivery services.

Opt for organic oxtail if your budget allows for higher quality and a cleaner product. However, conventional oxtail is perfectly fine and still delivers incredible flavor in this stew.

Consider exploring online specialty stores for unique smoked paprika or other spice blends; these can genuinely elevate the deep red pepper flavor.

Advanced Tips & Adaptations

For extra depth, add a bay leaf during simmering or a splash of balsamic vinegar with the broth. A pinch of chili flakes introduces a subtle warmth, and finishing with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish.

For younger palates, ensure the stew is mild and serve it with plain rice or pasta. For a gourmet touch, consider adding exotic mushrooms or a dash of truffle oil at the end.

To ensure this qualifies as one of your gluten-free dinner ideas, always confirm your beef broth is certified gluten-free. If avoiding dairy, simply omit the sour cream or cheese topping.

FAQs about Oxtail Recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew

Can this oxtail recipe be prepped ahead for the week?

Yes, absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for efficient meal prepping. Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days.

What’s the healthiest substitute if I can’t find oxtail?

Bone-in beef short ribs are an excellent, healthy alternative. They offer similar richness and tenderness when slow-cooked in a deep red pepper stew, providing a comparable high-protein meal.

Is this oxtail recipe good for weight loss diets?

Yes, in moderation. This oxtail recipe is high in protein and healthy fats, which promote satiety. Portion control is key for this hearty dish to fit into a healthy eating plan.

How long does it take for oxtail to get tender?

Oxtail needs significant cooking time, typically 2.5-3.5 hours on the stovetop. Alternatively, I’ve found a pressure cooker reduces this to 60-75 minutes for perfectly fork-tender results.

Can I make this deep red pepper stew spicier?

Yes! For a spicier kick to your oxtail recipe, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the aromatics. Adjust to your preferred heat level.

What kind of red peppers are best for this oxtail recipe?

Red bell peppers are ideal for their natural sweetness and mild flavor, which complements the oxtail perfectly. Roasted red peppers from a jar can also add a smoky depth.

This oxtail recipe In Deep Red Pepper Stew delivers unparalleled comfort, rich flavor, and satisfying nutrition with surprising ease, truly a healthy dinner recipe.

Go ahead, print this recipe or pin it to your weekly meal plan today for delicious family-friendly meals!

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