Oxtail Delight is a rich and hearty dish that's perfect for when you're craving something comforting yet a little bit exotic. This recipe combines the deep flavor of oxtail with the creaminess of peanut butter, creating a stew that's both unique and satisfying.
Oxtail is the star of the show here, offering a rich, beefy flavor that gets better the longer you cook it. The gelatin in the bones helps thicken the stew naturally. Vegetable oil is used for browning the oxtail, setting up the base for a flavorful stew. Garlic and onion provide a fragrant and savory foundation, while tomatoes add a touch of acidity to cut through the richness. Fish sauce is the secret umami weapon, and peanut butter adds creaminess and depth. The eggplant, green beans, and banana heart bring freshness and texture. Finally, annatto powder gives the dish a lovely color, while salt and black pepper ensure everything is perfectly seasoned.
Oxtail Delight pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up all the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
First, you'll want to wash and pat dry the oxtail pieces. This ensures that they sear nicely. Next, heat up some vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the garlic and onion. Let them sauté until they're fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Now it's time to add the oxtail. Sear these until they're browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavor and gives the stew a rich base. Once browned, stir in the tomatoes and cook until they've softened and melded nicely with the aromatics.
Pour in the water and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the fish sauce and annatto powder. Stir well and let it simmer gently for about 2-3 hours. This might seem long, but it's what makes the oxtail tender and flavorful.
After the oxtail is tender, stir in the peanut butter, eggplant, green beans, and banana heart. Let everything cook together for another 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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