Oxtail with broad beans

Story behind the dish

Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the rich aroma of slow-braising oxtail, infused with a lively kick of Scotch Bonnet chili. This dish transforms humble ingredients into a hearty, flavorful masterpiece that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. Perfect for gathering loved ones around the table, it’s a celebration of bold flavors and time-honored techniques.

The journey of this dish begins with tender oxtail, simmered to perfection alongside earthy broad beans and fragrant herbs. Each step captures the magic of slow-cooking, where patience yields tenderness, and every element harmonizes into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is memorable.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) oxtail
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 spring onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 chopped Scotch Bonnet chili
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 chopped fresh thyme sprig
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) water (for pressure cooking)
• 3/4 cup (200 g) broad beans
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)

Step-by-step

1. Toss the oxtail with the chopped onion, spring onion, garlic, ginger, Scotch Bonnet chili, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtail pieces all over, about 10 minutes, until they develop a deep, rich color.
3. Transfer the browned oxtail to a pressure cooker. Pour in 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) water, then secure the lid.
4. Cook under pressure for 25 minutes. Afterward, carefully release the pressure according to your cooker’s instructions and open the lid.
5. Add the broad beans and pimento berries to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
6. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornflour in 2 tablespoons water. Stir this slurry into the simmering dish.
7. Cook and stir for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens and the broad beans are tender, enhancing the dish’s robust flavors.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• Serve this rich oxtail and broad beans stew over steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or hearty yams for a complete, satisfying meal.
• For an extra layer of flavor, garnish with additional chopped spring onions or fresh herbs like cilantro.

Closing thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about this dish — the tender oxtail melting in a spicy, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for sharing. It’s a recipe that celebrates patience and bold tastes, transforming everyday ingredients into a celebration of savory goodness. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this oxtail with broad beans will surely captivate your taste buds and warm your soul.