Braised Oxtail Casserole

Nov 1, 2023

 3 minute read

When I started the butchery back in 2012, I made it my mission to have a no waste policy and everything of the animal that can be eaten is used. I like to do some batch cooking whenever I can, to help our busy lifestyles. The butchers had ox tail in the freezer which needed using. There is nothing nicer than walking into the house after a busy day to be welcomed by the warmth and the smell of a good stew on a cold, wet autumn day.

Here Is a recipe I put together to share with family and friends.

Braised Oxtail Casserole – inexpensive, tasty & good for the soul

INGREDIENTS
1 x Large Oxtail (ask your butcher)
2 x Large peeled potatoes.
1 x Large white or red onion.
4-6 x Cloves of garlic.
3 x Large diced carrots.
¼ Diced swede.
1 x Small, chopped leek.
1 x Diced celery (optional).
Salt & pepper to taste.
3-4 x Fresh or dried bay leaves.
1 x Tsp dried herbs (optional).
1 x Pint/600ml of beef stock (2 stock cubes)
1 x small glass or 125ml of red wine (optional)

METHOD

• Heat a large heavy pan and add your oxtail pieces to it. (no oil needed if oxtail has enough fat)
• Add seasoning, salt and pepper.
• When the meat is browned, remove from pan and add your vegetables.
• Fry them in the pan with a splash of oil if needed.
• Add bay leaves, mixed herbs, beef stock and your optional wine, bring to boil.
• Add the browned oxtail pieces back into the pot.
• Cover & cook in the slow cooker for 4/5 hours or in the oven at 180c for 2-3 hours or until meat is falling away from the bone.
• Season to taste
• Serve with fresh crusty bread (Which is my choice, but anything goes).

GOOD TO KNOW
This dish is always best cooked a good day before eating it. (when it’s cold, it’s easy to remove any excess fat from the top) before reheating to serve.

COST
This recipe will serve 4 people and costs between £2.50/£3 per person depending on how much wine you add.

Barbara Cossins is founder of Love Local Trust Local, Rawston Farm Butchery www.rawstonfarmbutchery.co.uk; The Langton Arms www.thelangtonarms.co.uk.