Jul 14 2026

Rabo Encendido Recipe

Time4h
Serves6

Oxtail seared and braised in spices and vegetables.

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Ingredients

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Meat

Vegetables

Spices and Seasonings

Liquid

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Oxtail

    Rinse the oxtail pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

  2. 2

    Chop the Vegetables

    Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper into small pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the tomatoes.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Sear the Oxtail

    In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned oxtail pieces in batches, searing them until browned on all sides. Remove the oxtail from the pot and set aside.

  2. 4

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

  3. 5

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

  4. 6

    Deglaze the Pot

    Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

  5. 7

    Add Oxtail and Broth

    Return the seared oxtail pieces back to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring that the oxtail is submerged in liquid. Bring to a boil.

  6. 8

    Braise the Oxtail

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtail is tender and falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and check to ensure there is enough liquid, adding more broth if necessary.

Serving

  1. 9

    Serve the Rabo Encendido

    Once the oxtail is tender, remove it from heat. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside rice or crusty bread.

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