This recipe is mostly because I love oxtail and it was raining yesterday. It’ll make you feel warm inside and out on a cold day. It is similar to an Osso Buco, except with red wine instead of white and oxtail instead of veal. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings as you cook this down. Leave out the chili pepper flakes and horseradish if you like, but they do add a little “pop” to the dish.
Osso Bucco is not the same as oxtail. Oxtail is actually the tail of a cow, whereas Osso Bucco is from the shank (lower leg). For example, if you were cooking Osso Bucco, you would probably use a slow cooker to keep the meat moist while it cooks. You could also sear the meat first before braising it for a long time.
Oxtail, like short ribs and shank, are tough and fatty, which make them perfect for braising (or stewing) – slow cooking over low heat for an extended period. After cooking the meat is soft, tender and falling off the bone.
Osso Buco pairs well with mashed potatoes or white rice, but to really create a meal worth remembering, I recommend serving it over a nice Risotto. Risotto Milanese goes perfect with it – the saffron, nutmeg and beef tallow used in preparing the risotto complements the beefy oxtails.
Osso Buco is traditionally an Italian dish made with veal shanks. In Japan, veal shank is difficult to find and oxtail is much more popular. This version of Osso Buco features oxtails which are first browned and then braised for 3 1/2-4 hours in Japanese flavorings. The collagen in the oxtails, besides being healthy for skin and bones, releases over time and thickens the sauce naturally.
Neither Osso Buco or Risotto can be rushed, so plan on spending a few hours in the kitchen to put this dish together. But rest assured, it will be worth the investment in time when you try it,
This recipe is mostly because I love oxtail and it was raining yesterday. It’ll make you feel warm inside and out on a cold day. It is similar to an Osso Buco, except with red wine instead of white and oxtail instead of veal. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings as you cook this down. Leave out the chili pepper flakes and horseradish if you like, but they do add a little “pop” to the dish.
Oxtail Osso Buco
FAQ
What meat is similar to osso buco?
What cut of meat is the osso bucco?
Can you substitute oxtail for beef shank?