Air Fryer Braised Oxtail Recipe
Braised oxtail is a rich, flavorful dish traditionally slow-cooked for hours. However, using an air fryer can significantly cut down cooking time while still delivering a tender and juicy result. This method involves seasoning, searing, and slow-cooking the oxtail in an air fryer until it reaches fall-off-the-bone perfection. The air fryer ensures a beautifully caramelized exterior while locking in all the juices.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
2 lbs (900g) oxtail, cut into pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 cup beef broth (or water)
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tbsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Instructions:
Season the Oxtail
In a large bowl, pat dry the oxtail pieces with paper towels.
Drizzle with olive oil and rub with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Add Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Sear in Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Place oxtail pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until browned on all sides.
Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In an air fryer-safe dish (or a heatproof dish that fits in your air fryer), add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and tomato paste.
Pour in the beef broth and mix well. Add bay leaves and thyme.
Place the browned oxtail into the dish, ensuring it’s partially submerged in the broth. Cover tightly with foil or a lid.
Braise the Oxtail in the Air Fryer
Reduce the air fryer temperature to 325°F (163°C).
Place the covered dish into the air fryer and cook for 1 hour 15 minutes, checking halfway to stir and ensure the oxtail is cooking evenly.
After 1 hour 15 minutes, remove the cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the sauce and caramelize the oxtail further.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to form a slurry.
Stir it into the sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until thickened.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your air fryer-braised oxtail with:
Steamed rice
Mashed potatoes
Creamy polenta
Roasted vegetables
Tips
Marinate Longer:
If possible, marinate overnight for deeper flavors.
Use a Heatproof Dish:
Ensure your dish fits inside the air fryer and can withstand high temperatures.
Don’t Skip Searing:
Browning the oxtail first locks in flavor and enhances the taste.
Adjust Liquid as Needed:
Some air fryers may evaporate liquid faster; add extra broth if necessary.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Air Fryer Braised Oxtail with minimal effort but maximum taste!