How To Cook Oxtail In A Pressure Cooker? Step-by-Step Guide

Oxtail. There was a time when most chefs and mealmakers weren’t interested in this dish. You can see the trend below. But after that, it has risen through the culinary ranks to become popular due to its rich flavor and succulent texture. Cooking oxtail to perfection typically requires hours of slow braising. But not anymore, thanks to pressure cookers. If you’re making it for the first time here, I will explain how to cook oxtail in a pressure cooker. 

What is an Oxtail?

Oxtails are the tail meat of a cow cut into segments. This cut is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, but only when cooked slowly. It contains a mix of meat and bone. This means it has a high collagen content that turns into gelatin. At the same time, it makes the dishes juicy and flavorful. These are commonly used in soups and stews.

Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Oxtail?

A pressure cooker is a fantastic appliance. It cooks tougher cuts of meat like oxtail without any effort. It uses steam pressure to cook food faster. While it breaks down the collagen in the oxtail into gelatin. That’s why the dish becomes so tender.

Moreover, it locks in flavors and nutrients it. So, you’re eating nutritious meals, not only the taste.

Required Ingredients to Cook Oxtail in a Pressure Cooker

These are the following ingredients you have to gather before you start preparing it:

• 2-3 pounds of oxtail, trimmed of excess fat
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of red wine (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Optional: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)

Preparation of Oxtail 3 Steps to Start

1. Season the Oxtail: Season the oxtail pieces with salt and pepper.

2. Brown the Oxtail: Heat the vegetable oil in the pressure cooker on medium-high heat. Then Add the oxtail pieces in batches.

Tip 💡:  Don’t overcrowd the pot. Brown them on all sides for a rich flavor foundation. Once browned, set them aside on a plate. 

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

How To Cook Oxtail In A Pressure Cooker? | Cooking Process

Now the process is pretty simple if you follow it accordingly. Even if you’re using an electric pressure cooker this will remain the same, except for the heat adjustment. Here we go:

Step # 1: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the cranberry or grape juice to deglaze the pot. Then, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This step is crucial for adding all the flavors into the sauce.

Step # 2: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Return the oxtail to the pot. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. If using, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine and prevent lumps.

Step # 3: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to cook on high pressure for about 45 minutes. After the cooking time has elapsed. Now, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. Then, carefully and quickly release any remaining pressure.

Step # 4: Final Touches

Once the pressure has fully released, you must open the lid and remove the bay leaves. If the sauce is thinner than desired, you can simmer it on the sauté function until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Prepared Oxtail

There are many ways to serve Oxtails, But it pairs exceptionally well with hearty sides that complement its richness. Some popular options include:

• Mashed potatoes offer a creamy texture that beautifully contrasts the meat’s richness.
• Rice, particularly jasmine or basmati, which can absorb the sauce’s flavors.
• Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add a fresh, crisp component to the meal.

How Long To Cook Oxtails In A Pressure Cooker? — Cooking Time Variations

The cooking time for oxtails in a pressure cooker can vary.

Why?

Because it leads to different culinary opinions and practices, you can achieve the perfect tenderness and ideal flavor when you understand these.

Let’s explore these aspects from various viewpoints:

Traditional Versus Modern Cooking Approaches

Here’s a table showing the comparison between using a traditional cooker & an electric cooker while you’re making oxtail:

In traditional slow-cooking methods, the oxtails simmer for several hours. It’s normal to take up to three to four hours. That’s how it breaks down the connective tissues thoroughly.

On the other hand, the latest cooking techniques leverage the pressure cooker’s efficiency. It recommends it for around 35 minutes on high pressure. This approach is favored for balancing speed and achieving a desirable texture.

Size and Cut of the Oxtail

The larger cuts of oxtail may require a slightly longer cooking time, which is obvious. It takes time to break down the connective tissue fully.

Tip: These larger pieces’ ideal cooking time is 50-60 minutes.

However, smaller cuts often cook perfectly within 35-45 minutes. This reduces the cooking time and still ensures tender meat without overcooking.

Desired Tenderness

The meat which effortlessly falls off the bone. You must opt for the upper end of the cooking time spectrum if you want a firmer texture, like where the meat holds to the bone but is still tender. A cooking time of around 40-45 minutes is enough.

Tips for Perfect Pressure Cooker Oxtail

• Browning Is Key: Don’t skip browning the oxtail and vegetables; this step adds depth and complexity to the dish’s flavor.

• Natural Release Is Crucial: Allowing the pressure to release naturally helps keep the meat tender.

• Adjust Seasonings: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.

Conclusion

Finally, now you know how to cook oxtail in a pressure cooker. The cooking oxtail in a pressure cooker transforms a traditional dish into a more accessible weeknight dinner option. This method only saves time without compromising on the meat’s natural flavors. That’s how it makes a hearty and satisfying meal.

Emma Bennett

Hi! I’m Emma Bennett, a passionate home cook and your go-to expert for everything related to multi-cookers. Through this blog, I aim to share reviews, clever kitchen hacks, delicious recipes, and guides that cater to both beginners and seasoned food lovers.

My mission is to simplify your cooking experience and enrich it with flavors. So you can infuse joy into every meal you create.