Nigerian Oxtail Stew Recipe: A Flavorful and Hearty Delight

Nigerian Oxtail Stew is a beloved delicacy that brings bold flavors and tender, fall-off-the-bone meat to the table. Packed with rich spices, fresh vegetables, and slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is a staple in many Nigerian households. If you’re looking to make an authentic Nigerian Oxtail Stew, you’re in the right place!

This recipe is perfect for those who love deeply flavorful, comforting meals. Oxtail is known for its gelatinous, tender texture when cooked properly, making it ideal for stews. Paired with aromatic herbs, tomatoes, and peppers, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Nigerian Oxtail Stew

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these key ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900g) oxtail, chopped into pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
• 2 large tomatoes (blended)
• 2 red bell peppers (blended)
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (blended, adjust to spice preference)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground crayfish (optional, for added depth)
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and seasoning cubes to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 cup chopped carrots (optional, for sweetness)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Nigerian Oxtail Stew

Step 1: Clean and Season the Oxtail

Oxtail requires proper cleaning before cooking. Rinse the meat thoroughly with water and a little vinegar or lemon juice to remove any impurities. Pat dry and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Oxtail

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oxtail pieces and sear them on all sides until they turn golden brown. This locks in the juices and enhances the flavor. Once browned, remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes to remove any raw taste.

Step 4: Add the Blended Peppers and Tomatoes

Pour in the blended tomatoes, red bell peppers, and scotch bonnet pepper. Stir well and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and deepen in flavor.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Once the sauce has reduced, add thyme, curry powder, paprika, crayfish (if using), seasoning cubes, white pepper, and bay leaf. Stir everything together before returning the browned oxtail to the pot.

Step 6: Slow Cook the Oxtail

Pour in the beef broth or water, ensuring the oxtail is partially submerged. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and add water if needed.

Step 7: Add Vegetables and Final Touches

If using carrots, add them in the last 20 minutes of cooking to retain their texture. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then sprinkle chopped green onions for freshness.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Nigerian Oxtail Stew pairs beautifully with steamed rice, pounded yam, fufu, or boiled plantains. The rich, thick sauce complements these side dishes perfectly, making every bite a delight.

Tips for the Perfect Nigerian Oxtail Stew

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, peppers, and herbs elevate the stew’s taste.
• Marinate the oxtail: Letting the meat sit with seasoning before cooking enhances flavor.
• Low and slow is best: Oxtail becomes incredibly tender when cooked over low heat for an extended period.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder stew, use fewer scotch bonnet peppers.
• Add smoked fish for depth: A bit of smoked fish can introduce a unique smoky flavor to the stew.

Why You’ll Love This Nigerian Oxtail Stew

This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also rich in nutrients. Oxtail contains collagen, which is excellent for joint and skin health. The combination of spices and herbs also provides immune-boosting benefits.

Nigerian Oxtail Stew is a perfect meal for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even a special treat for yourself. With its deep, rich flavors and hearty texture, this dish is guaranteed to impress!