Smoked Oxtail

Fall apart silky tender combined with a rich flavor of wood smoke and red wine, You are going to love this smoked oxtail recipe.

If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that's perfect for those cool autumn nights or any other time of year, then smoked oxtail is the recipe for you. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make using your smoker or Traeger grill.

Smoked oxtail is a traditional comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. The rich, tender meat falls off the bone and melts in your mouth, while the smoky flavor adds depth and complexity to every bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or making it as a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. So fire up your smoker or Traeger grill and get ready to savor one of the most delicious meals you've ever had!

What is Oxtail

Oxtail is what it sounds like. It is the tail of a cow. This definitely is not a common cut of beef. It is skinned, and cut into portions. When you have the package of oxtail opened, the oxtail pieces look almost like a meat puzzle to assemble. The thicker part can be almost four inches in diameter, while the thinned parts can be as thin as an inch in diameter. After being smoked and braised oxtail tastes similar to pot roast.

How to cook Oxtail

The Oxtail is going to be treated a lot like beef short ribs. It has a large amount of connective tissue that will require us to cook this for several hours. We will first cook it low and slow in the smoker. We use indirect heat from the smoker to add great smoke flavor, then combine it in a large pan, or Dutch oven along with the braising liquid. We cover it and let it cook over medium heat to allow the tissue and fat to break down. Oxtail is a hearty delicious dish.

Smoked Oxtails Recipe Ingredients

Ox tail - Ox tail comes in sliced portions. They are all different sizes. Three pounds of ox tail, once cooked, will serve up to four or six people.

Olive Oil - To coat the oxtail and help the rub to stick to it.

Ingredients for Dry Rub - Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper

How to Make Smoked Oxtail 

Step One - Combine dry rub ingredients of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and mix. Then in a large bowl, place the oxtail pieces and drizzle with olive oil. Make sure the oxtail is coated with olive oil to allow the rub to adhere well. Next, sprinkle the dry rub all over the oxtail. Use your hands to rub the seasoning onto all the sides of all the oxtail pieces.

Step Two - Place the seasoned oxtail directly onto the grill grates of your preheated smoker. Smoke the oxtail for two hours.

Step Three - Prepare your braising liquid.

Assemble the braising ingredients: Red Wine, Beef Broth, Chopped Onion, Chopped Garlic, and Olive oil. 

In a large saucepan, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Then add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about five minutes, until they create a great aroma. Then add the red wine and beef broth. Bring to a boil.

Step Four - Braise the Oxtail.

How to Braise Smoked Oxtails

Place oxtails in a deep aluminum pan or a large cast iron pot. Pour the braising liquid over the oxtail until they are mostly covered with liquid. Use aluminum foil or a well-fitting lid to cover the oxtail as it braises. Place the covered pan of oxtail back in the smoker and increase the smoker temperature to 250-275°F. Allow the oxtail to braise for four to five hours. You will know it is done when you can easily pull the meat from the phone with a fork.

Step Five - Remove the Smoked Oxtail from the braising liquid and serve with mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Variations

Braising Liquid - An easy way to vary the flavor is to change up the braising liquid. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar, some garlic cloves, or tomato paste.

Common Questions

Is oxtail healthy?

Oxtail is considered to be a healthy food choice when consumed in moderation. It is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and B vitamins. Additionally, oxtail contains collagen which can help to improve skin health and reduce joint pain.

However, it is important to note that oxtail is high in fat and cholesterol. Therefore, those who are trying to limit their intake of these nutrients should consider other sources of protein such as lean meats or plant-based proteins. Additionally, oxtail should be cooked properly to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Overall, oxtail can be a healthy addition to one’s diet when eaten in moderation and prepared safely. Those looking for an alternative source of protein should consider other options that are lower in fat and cholesterol.

If you love this recipe try Slow Cooker Birria next!