Oxtails are a delicious and unique dish that can be a great centerpiece to any dinner. They are versatile cuts of beef that can be used to make everything from stews to braises.
But what should you serve with them? Oxtails have a distinctive flavor, so finding the right side dishes can be tricky.
But don’t worry! Here, we’ll discuss some delectable side dishes that will pair perfectly with oxtail entrees.
So, let us get started to taste all these mouthwatering combinations one by one.
A quick solution on what to Serve with Oxtails Mashed Potatoes, Collard Greens, Macaroni & Cheese, Rice or Quinoa Pilafs, Roasted Vegetables, Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Mac and Cheese, Cornbread Stuffing, Baked Sweet Potatoes, Green Beans Almondine, Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin, Fried Okra, Sauteed Spinach, Roasted Carrots with Dill, Baked Butternut Squash, Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Apples, Garlic Parmesan French Fries, Dill Carrots, Grilled cheese sandwiches, Hush puppies, Fried plantains, Southern-style greens, Jalapeno cornbread and many more.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Oxtails
Oxtails have a rich, savory flavor that makes them perfect for pairing with complementary side dishes.
Here are 48 of the best dishes to serve with oxtails for an unforgettable meal:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are always a classic, and they make a great accompaniment to oxtail entrees. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is the perfect balance for the robust flavor of oxtail meat.
Plus, mashed potatoes are incredibly easy to make—just boil your potatoes until they’re soft and mash them up with some butter, salt, pepper, and maybe some garlic for extra flavor.
2. Collard Greens
Collard greens are an excellent way to add some freshness to your meal. They’re also a healthy option if you want to lighten up the meal without sacrificing taste.
To make collard greens, sauté some chopped onion in oil until it’s softened, and then add in the collard greens until they’re wilted.
Add salt and pepper to taste, plus maybe some garlic or hot sauce for an extra kick!
3. Macaroni & Cheese
My favorite Macaroni & cheese is another classic side dish that goes well with oxtails. The creamy texture complements the rich flavor of oxtail meat perfectly.
You can buy pre-made macaroni & cheese from the store if you don’t have time to make it from scratch.
Or you can whip up your own homemade version by combining cooked macaroni noodles with melted cheese and seasonings like garlic powder and paprika.
4. Rice or Quinoa Pilafs
Rice or quinoa pilafs are a classic side dish that is well with oxtails. These flavorful, hearty dishes are easy to put together and will help round out your meal nicely.
To make a pilaf, simply sauté some vegetables in a skillet, such as onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Then add in the grains and cook until they’re tender.
Finally, stir in some broth or stock for extra flavor and moisture.
If you want to add even more flavor, try stirring in some nuts or dried fruit for added texture and sweetness.
5. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great way to add some freshness and color to your plate while still keeping things simple.
You can try roasting cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, carrots, beets — whatever veggies you have on hand — in olive oil with salt and pepper until they’re tender and lightly browned around the edges.
This is an easy way to get a healthy side dish onto your table without much effort at all!
6. Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes
These creamy, dreamy potatoes are the perfect side for oxtails. The smoked gouda adds your dish a depth of flavor that takes them over the top.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Who doesn’t love bacon? These roasted Brussels sprouts are elevated with the addition of crispy bacon bits. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
8. Mac and Cheese
This classic comfort food is always a welcome addition to any meal and you also definitely like like this. Oxtails and mac and cheese are a match made in heaven.
9. Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with oxtails. The addition of onion, celery, and herbs makes this a flavorful side dish.
10. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a great alternative to regular mashed potatoes. They’re packed with vitamins and minerals, plus they taste amazing when you are topped with butter, honey, and cinnamon.
11. Green Beans Almondine
You can try this classic green bean recipe, as it is one of the best sides for oxtails. Toasted almonds add crunch, while lemon juice adds a bright flavor that elevates your entire dish.
12. Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin
The perfect combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender potatoes makes this an ideal side for oxtails, and it will surely impress your people.
13. Fried Okra
Fried okra is a classy Southern side dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone you’re the table. The crunchy coating and tender okra make this one of the best sides for oxtails.
14. Sauteed Spinach
This healthy side dish is full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and it pairs perfectly with your oxtails. Spices like garlic and red pepper flakes add flavor and dimension to this simple side dish.
15. Roasted Carrots with Dill
Roasted carrots are a delicious way to enjoy your vegetables. The addition of fresh dill adds an herby flavor that takes them over the top.
16. Baked Butternut Squash
This sweet and savory side is a great way to get your veggies in. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg makes this the perfect accompaniment for oxtails.
17. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Apples
The combination of sweet apples and savory Brussels sprouts makes this a winning side dish for those looking for something different. The caramelized edges are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
18. Garlic Parmesan French Fries
These crispy fries are loaded with flavor thanks to garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs like thyme and oregano. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
19. Sweet Potato Wedges
These Crispy Potato wedges are perfect for those who want something different than regular fries. The addition of chili powder adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with your oxtails.
20. Baked Apples
This sweet and comforting side is easy to make, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Baked apples are a delicious way to enjoy your fruit, and they’re wonderfully fragrant when served alongside oxtails.
21. Creamed Spinach
If you’re looking for a vegetable side dish that packs more flavor than plain steamed spinach, then creamed spinach is just what you need. The creaminess complements the richness of your oxtails perfectly.
22. Potato Gratin
Potato gratin is a classic accompaniment to oxtails; it offers you layers of cheesy goodness paired with crispy potatoes.
23. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasting root vegetables in butter brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delicious contrast with the salty and savory flavors of oxtails.
24. Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles provide you an extra bit of richness when combined with oxtails, making for a comforting combination that’s sure to please everyone’s palate.
25. Baked Beans
A classic barbecue side dish, baked beans add smokiness to your plate that pairs nicely with the deep flavors of oxtail meat.
26. Braised Greens
Collard greens or kale cooked low-and-slow in broth create an amazing side dish full of vitamins and minerals that enhance your main course without overpowering it.
27. Dill Carrots
Serve dill carrots alongside your oxtail dish for color, crunch, and herbal notes to contrast the rich flavors of the main course.
28. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their sweetness while adding interesting textures to the plate when you serve them alongside oxtails Plus, they’re incredibly healthy!
29. Cornbread or Biscuits
Cornbread or biscuits make a delicious addition to any dinner table, then you can serve them warm alongside your favorite gravy for an extra special treat!
30. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf added nuttiness and earthy notes when served with hearty meats like oxtail stew.
It’s especially good if you dress it up with dried fruit or nuts for added crunch and sweetness!
31. Cauliflower Au Gratin
Cauliflower au gratin offers cheesy deliciousness paired with lightly blanched cauliflower florets cooked just until tender perfection — it’s sure to be a hit!
32. Fried Plantains or Sweet Potatoes
For added sweetness & crunch on your plate, fried plantains or sweet potatoes are ideal accompaniments to savory meats like oxtail stew – plus, they’re easy to prepare!
33. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is packed full of protein & fiber while keeping things light & fresh on your dinner table – try this healthier alternative as a side dish next time you’re making oxtail stew!
34. Polenta
Polenta is incredibly versatile – you can try serving it as a creamy base topped with braised greens & succulent pieces of oxtail meat for something truly special!
35. Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions offer you sweet depth & complexity when paired against hearty proteins like braised beef – serve them over mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for added indulgence!
36. French Fries
Who can resist french fries? Whether oven-baked or fried, these golden potato wedges make an irresistible addition when served alongside slow-cooked meats like braised beef short ribs (or any kind of braised meat!).
37. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread perfectly balances acidity against richness – slather some butter onto warm slices & pair it with juicy pieces of steak or succulent pieces of slow-cooked pork shoulder (or other meats) for an unbeatable combo!
38. Coleslaw
For something lighter on the side – opt for freshly made coleslaw – shredded cabbage dressed in mayo & sour cream creates tangy refreshment next to juicy cuts like short ribs (or other slow-cooked meats).
39. Rice
You can try different kinds of rice like White rice, coconut-infused rice, etc., and bean and vegetable stir fry are all great options to serve alongside oxtail.
40. Plantains
Fried sweet plantains provide you a perfect balance of sweetness to the savory oxtail dish.
41. Stewed Tomatoes
Adding stewed tomatoes can give your dish some acidity which will help cut through the richness of the oxtail meat.
42. Baked potatoes
baked potatoes offer you a crisp exterior and fluffy interior which provide an excellent contrast to oxtail’s tender, slow-cooked meat.
43. Bread rolls
Whether you go for plain white rolls or something more flavorful like garlic or cheddar buns, bread rolls are perfect for sopping up any excess broth from your oxtail dish.
44. Grilled cheese sandwiches
This comfort food favorite is great when you serve it alongside oxtails because it provides an additional layer of texture and flavor that really takes your meal to the next level.
45. Hush puppies
These deep-fried balls provide you an extra crunchy aspect which really brings out the best in your Oxtails; plus, they look great on top too!
46. Fried plantains
Sweet plantains offer not only sweetness but also texture thanks to their crispy exterior, which makes them pair perfectly with hearty Oxtails.
47. Southern-style greens
Collards, turnip greens, or mustard greens bring your dish an earthy flavoring combined with pungent spices, which adds depth to any Otail meal.
48. Jalapeno cornbread
This spicy version of traditional cornbread brings heat along with sweetness which helps you brighten up any plateful of Otail without overpowering other flavors.
What cut of meat is oxtail, and what does oxtail taste like?
Oxtails are a cut of meat from the tail of cattle. They consist of hard, fatty pieces of meat and cartilage that must be cooked slowly in order to tenderize the meat.
Oxtail is usually slow-cooked for several hours until it reaches a flavorful and tender consistency. The taste is similar to beef but with an earthy flavor derived from the bones and cartilage.
It can also take on flavors from herbs, spices, vegetables, and other ingredients used in the cooking process.
Oxtails are often served with mashed potatoes or rice, as well as vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor.
Oxtail soup is a popular dish around the world, featuring oxtails cooked with broth, onions, garlic, and various spices.
What are the best flavors to go with oxtails?
Oxtails are a great dish to serve, as they tend to take on the flavors of whatever sauce they are cooked in.
Some classic flavor pairings include garlic and bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce and red wine vinegar, jerk seasoning, curry powder, smoked paprika and thyme, tomato paste, and oregano, or simply salt and pepper.
No matter which combination you choose for your oxtail recipe, the slow-cooked meat will be tender and succulent with an amazing depth of flavor. Enjoy!
How do you jazz up oxtail?
One way to jazz up oxtail is to marinate it in a flavorful combination of ingredients such as garlic, onion, ginger, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
Allow the oxtail pieces to sit in this mixture for at least an hour before cooking. This will infuse the meat with a nice flavor that’ll add some pizzazz!
You can also slow-cook the marinated oxtail in a liquid such as beef stock or even beer. The liquid should cover most of the oxtail pieces so that they are fully immersed.
Once cooked through (this may take several hours), you can serve your oxtail with rice or mashed potatoes to complete the meal.
To really spice up your oxtail, you can also add other ingredients, such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even olives, to the pot while it’s cooking.
This will give your oxtail a more complex flavor and make it much more interesting too!
Finally, if you want to make an especially flavorful dish of oxtail, try adding some sort of sauce to it after it has been cooked.
Barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or even a creamy mushroom sauce all work well with oxtail dishes.
Adding one of these sauces just before serving can totally transform your dish and make for an impressive meal!
What is the best way to serve oxtails on any occasion?
What is the best way to serve oxtails on any occasion? The best way to serve oxtails is by slow cooking them with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices.
This will ensure that the oxtails are tender and flavorful. You can also roast or braise the oxtails with a savory sauce to add even more flavor.
Finally, you can serve your oxtail dish with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta for an extra-special meal.
When served in a stew or soup, the rich flavors of the bone marrow infuse into the surrounding liquid, making it even more flavorful.
You can also cook oxtails by braising them with vegetables or simmering them in gravy. The tender meat of the oxtail is full of flavor and will leave your guests wanting more!
For those looking for an extra special treat, you can even make oxtail pot pie!
This delicious dish combines the richness of the beefy bone marrow with a flaky buttery crust to create a truly unique and memorable meal.
No matter the preparation method, oxtails are sure to please any guest at your dinner table.
Whether you’re looking for an entree or something different to serve as an appetizer, oxtails make an excellent addition to any menu.
How should oxtails be served?
Oxtails are traditionally served as a stew or soup. They are simmered in a flavorful liquid, such as beef stock and red wine, with vegetables added for extra flavor.
Oxtails also have a natural gelatinous quality which thickens the stew and adds a rich texture to the finished dish.
Oxtails can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta, and when cooked correctly, they are melt-in-your-mouth tender.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add spices like allspice, nutmeg, or cinnamon to the stew to add an extra depth of flavor. Serve oxtails with crusty bread to mop up all the delicious juices!
Oxtails can also be used to make a spicy curry dish.
Braise the oxtails in a flavorful curry sauce with onion, garlic, ginger, and chili powder. Serve the curry over cooked white rice for an authentic Indian-style meal.
Another favorite way to enjoy oxtails is by slow cooking them in a flavorful barbecue sauce until they are fork-tender.
They are served as an appetizer or main course alongside coleslaw and cornbread for a delicious Southern-style feast!
No matter which way you choose to make it, oxtails are sure to add some extra flavor and texture to any dish you create! Enjoy!
10 best oxtail dinner ideas
1. Spicy Oxtail Stew
This hearty stew is a traditional Caribbean favorite that packs a punch! You can start with oxtail pieces simmered in a flavorful base of garlic, onion, and scotch bonnet peppers and simmer until the meat is fork-tender.
Serve it with steamed white rice or mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
2. Braised Jamaican Oxtail
This classic Jamaican dish is best made with beef oxtail instead of mutton for maximum flavor.
Marinate the oxtail in a blend of fresh thyme, allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, garlic, lime juice, and fish sauce before braising in beef stock until it’s falling off the bone tender.
Next, you can serve it over coconut-infused rice for an extra boost of flavor.
3. Oxtail Ragu
You can make this Italian-inspired ragu by slowly braising oxtails with carrots, celery, and onion in red wine and tomato paste until the meat falls off the bone tender.
Add some smoked bacon and serve over pappardelle noodles or creamy polenta for an unforgettable comforting meal.
4. Coconut Curry Oxtails
Give your curry an extra depth of flavor by using oxtails instead of ground beef or chicken.
Simmer them in a fragrant coconut curry sauce made with red curry paste, garlic, and ginger until they fall apart tender, then serve over steamed jasmine rice for a delicious take on an Asian classic!
5. Oxtail Pot Pie
Transform your favorite pot pie into something special by using oxtails as your protein source!
Start by braising them in the beef broth along with onions, carrots, and celery until they are meltingly tender before adding it to your pot pie filling mix of peas, mushrooms, and herbs.
Top it off with homemade puff pastry crust for a comforting home-cooked meal that’s perfect for cold winter nights!
6. Oxtail Gumbo
For an authentic Southern twist on dinner time, add some oxtails to your gumbo!
Start by simmering them gently in a Creole-style roux-based sauce made from bell peppers, onions, garlic, and spices before adding okra and shrimp to finish up this classic Louisiana dish!
Serve over hot steamed rice or creamy grits for the ultimate comfort food experience!
7. Mexican Mole Oxtails
You just put an exciting spin on traditional mole sauce by using oxtails as your main ingredient instead of chicken thighs!
Cook them low and slow in rich mole sauce flavored with Mexican spices like chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon before serving over warm tortillas topped with melted cheese blend—delicious!
8. Korean Oxtail Soup
Give this traditional Korean soup—called kkori gomtang—a unique twist by using oxtails as its primary protein source instead of pork or beef bones!
You just simmer them along with daikon radish slices and shiitake mushrooms.
Then season it up with Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), soya bean paste (doenjang), scallions & garlic before finishing off with sesame oil & green onions—for a truly soul-warming soup experience!
9. Barbecue Oxtail Sandwiches
Make sure you’re ready when summer BBQ season rolls around by prepping these lip-smacking sandwiches ahead of time!
Begin by slow cooking the meaty tails in beer & BBQ sauce, then shredding them once they fall apart tender so you can stuff them into fluffy buns together with crunchy coleslaw & pickles – yummy!!
10. Greek Style Stuffed Peppers With Oxtail Filling
Take stuffed peppers to another level by adding juicy, flavorful chunks of oxtail as one of your main ingredients inside the bell pepper pockets.
Combine it with feta cheese, olives, oregano, chopped tomatoes, capers, onions & garlic to get an amazing Mediterranean tasting entrée – perfect for health-conscious people who don’t want to compromise on taste!
Side dishes for oxtail stew
1. Baked Beans
An ideal side dish for oxtail stew, baked beans are a tasty and hearty addition that can be enjoyed as is or served with a slice of fresh bread for an even more comforting experience.
They come in many forms, such as canned or homemade, and can be flavored with various seasonings, such as smoked paprika or cumin.
2. Mashed Potatoes
A classic side dish to accompany oxtail stew, mashed potatoes are incredibly popular to serve alongside other dishes due to their creamy texture and rich flavor.
Whether you’re making them with simple ingredients like butter and milk or adding sautéed garlic, these potatoes are sure to satisfy any appetite.
3. Cornbread
A staple in southern cooking, cornbread is a great side dish that can be served with oxtail stew to add some crunchy texture and sweetness.
Whether it’s made from scratch or purchased pre-made from the grocery store, this dish pairs deliciously with any beef-based stew.
4. Rice Pilaf
Another classic side dish for beef stews, rice pilaf is perfect for soaking up all the juicy flavors of oxtail stew while providing additional texture and flavor elements to the meal.
This easy-to-prepare dish adds nutrition without overwhelming the taste of the main course, making it a nutritious option for dinners large and small alike.
5. Roasted Vegetables
An excellent way to add color and nutrition to your plate, roasted vegetables offer an array of flavors that balance out the richness of the oxtail stew nicely.
You can try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, or squash for a variety of tastes that will please even the pickiest eater at your table!
6. Grilled Asparagus
Perfectly grilled asparagus makes an excellent side dish for oxtail stew – its mild flavor pairs well with the savory goodness found in beef stews!
Grill your spears over medium heat until they’ve reached a perfect level of doneness before serving them alongside all your other delicious dishes to make one amazing meal!
7. Fried Plantains
Sweet yet savory fried plantains are an exciting alternative side dish that goes wonderfully with beef stews like oxtail stew.
Their crispy exterior provides you an extra layer of flavor and texture against the richness found in these hearty dishes!
Whether you fry them up on their own or top them off with some grated cheese, these plantains will delight everyone at the dinner table!
8. Creamed Spinach
A creamy bed of creamed spinach is an unbelievably delicious addition when served alongside oxtail stew.
Its luxurious texture enhances all aspects of this traditional Southern favorite while providing additional vitamins and minerals not found anywhere else!
Serve it hot from the oven for maximum effect every time you whip it up!
9. Biscuits & Gravy
The ultimate comfort food combo – biscuits & gravy hits all the right notes when paired alongside hearty dishes like oxtail stew!
This classic Southern combination has been around since colonial times and provides both lightness and depth when served together – perfect for any occasion where soulful sustenance is desired!
10. Coleslaw
Crisp yet creamy coleslaw is both zesty and refreshing when paired alongside robust beef stews like oxtail stew.
Its crunchy cabbage base plays against bolder ingredients like onion and mustard while also providing some much-needed relief to heavy dishes like this one!
Enjoy it either cold or warm – whichever suits your fancy best!
11. Baked Beans
Don’t forget the beans! Whether they’re baked beans, chili beans, or just a simple side of black beans – this delicious legume is an easy way to add some protein and fiber to your oxtail stew meal.
Not only are they packed with great taste, but they are also extremely budget-friendly and can be made ahead of time for quick reheating when needed.
Enjoy them as a side dish, or use them as a topping for potatoes!
12. Sauteed Mushrooms
Earthy and savory sautéed mushrooms make a wonderful addition to any beef-based stew like oxtail stew – their robust flavor stands out nicely against the richness found in these dishes while also providing a great source of protein for any dinner table.
Saute them in butter or olive oil until they’re golden and aromatic before enjoying them as a side dish!
13. Garlic Bread
Nothing says comfort food quite like warm, toasty garlic bread – this delicious side is perfect for mopping up all the tasty juices from your oxtail stew while also adding a hint of garlicky flavor that will tantalize everyone’s taste buds!
Enjoy it with a creamy dip or simply on its own for an enjoyable dining experience every time.
FAQs on what to serve with oxtails
Q1. What kind of rice goes with oxtails?
Long-grain brown rice is the best type of rice to go with oxtails. Brown rice has a slightly nutty taste, and its chewy texture works perfectly with the tenderness of the oxtail meat. Also, brown rice contains significantly more fiber than white varieties, providing an added nutritional benefit.
It will also absorb some of the flavorful juices from the cooking liquid for even more flavor. Additionally, you could also serve it with wild or basmati rice for a different flavor profile. When cooking rice, use a ratio of 2 cups of liquid to 1 cup of rice, and simmer for about 40 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
You can also add herbs or spices such as a bay leaf, cumin, rosemary, thyme, or saffron to give it an extra flavor boost. Serve your oxtail with cooked long-grain brown rice for a delicious and nutritious meal. Enjoy!
Q2. What to serve with Jamaican oxtails?
Jamaican oxtails are usually served with steamed white rice and a side of vegetables, such as bammi, a Jamaican yam, or a cassava dish made from boiled and mashed yams seasoned with herbs. It is also common to serve this hearty dish with a side of steamed cabbage, plantains, boiled sweet potatoes, or pumpkin.
For added flavor, some people like to serve it with a spicy jerk sauce. As for beverages, rum punch is a popular accompaniment to Jamaican oxtails. Red Stripe beer is also often enjoyed with the dish. A steaming cup of freshly brewed Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is another great option.
In some households, oxtails are served in a soup or stew, accompanied by dumplings and okra. This tasty variation can be accompanied by various side dishes, such as Johnny cakes (a deep-fried cornmeal flatbread) and bammy or fried ripe plantains. No matter how it’s served, Jamaican oxtails are sure to delight any palate!