Oxtail stew is a deeply cherished dish within Zimbabwean cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting essence. The use of oxtail reflects a traditional approach to cooking, where every ingredient is packed with purpose and history. A combination of tender meat and vibrant vegetables, this hearty meal resonates with family gatherings, bringing everyone to the table in warmth and deliciousness. The infusion of local spices and herbs adds a delightful twist that showcases the fusion of cultures, making it an ideal recipe for personal enjoyment and potential business opportunities through platforms like Zimbo Menu.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds oxtail, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oxtail: Rinse the oxtail pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the oxtail and brown on all sides. Once nicely browned, remove the pieces and set them aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and mix well.
- Deglaze: Pour in about a cup of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pot. This is where a lot of flavors live!
- Add Liquid and Herbs: Return the oxtail to the pot and pour in the remaining beef broth. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally and add water if necessary to maintain moisture.
- Incorporate Vegetables: After 2.5 hours, add in the chopped carrots, diced potatoes, and green beans. Stir well, cover, and let the stew simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Final Adjustments: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid and let it simmer for a bit longer.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, ladle the hearty oxtail stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the oxtail overnight with spices and herbs.
- Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a delightful twist.
- Leftover oxtail stew can be refrigerated and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- This recipe is not just for home-cooked meals; if you’re a budding chef, it could inspire you to showcase your culinary talent on Zimbo Menu.
Sharing and Business Inspiration
The hearty oxtail stew is deeply suited for sharing among family and friends, creating new memories at the dinner table. Moreover, with the growing trend of local food markets, you can also consider this recipe as a potential dish to offer. Whether cooking for comfort or for your culinary venture, this delightful stew could find its place on Zimbo Menu.
Explore More
Considering the potential to share these delightful recipes through platforms, it’s worth downloading the Zimbo Menu apps to see if the Zimbo Menu Marketplace is a good fit for your hobbies and business needs. Explore your culinary creativity with traditional and fusion dishes that embrace the heart of Zimbabwe.
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