As the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a slow‑cooked Caribbean stew. This Slow‑Braised Coconut Oxtail Stew with Navy Beans brings together tender oxtails, creamy coconut milk, and plump navy beans in a deeply flavorful, aromatic dish. Once considered a humble “poor man’s” meal, this version elevates oxtails to a sought‑after delicacy. Featuring Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, allspice berries, and a splash of Angostura bitters, this stew captures the soul of the Caribbean that’s rich, warming, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredient Guide
- Oxtail: A flavorful cut of beef from the tail, known for its rich taste and gelatinous texture when slow-cooked. If unavailable, turkey neck can be a suitable substitute.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper: A fiery chili pepper common in Caribbean cuisine. Use with caution, and remove seeds to reduce heat.
- Caribbean Green Seasoning: A blend of fresh herbs and spices, including scallions, thyme, garlic, and parsley. Adds depth and authentic Caribbean flavor.
- Angostura Bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices. Optional, but adds complexity to the dish.
- Navy Beans: Small, white beans that become creamy when cooked. Soak overnight before using.
- Allspice Berries: Also known as pimento, these berries impart a warm, clove-like flavor. Remove before serving.
Shopping Made Easy
- Oxtail: Available at most butcher shops or international markets. Look for well-trimmed pieces with minimal fat.
- Scotch Bonnet Peppers: Found in the produce section of Caribbean or Latin grocery stores. Habanero peppers can be used as a substitute.
- Caribbean Green Seasoning: Often sold pre-made in Caribbean markets, or make your own using fresh herbs.
- Angostura Bitters: Available in the cocktail mixers section of many supermarkets.
- Navy Beans: Commonly found in the dry beans aisle of most grocery stores.
Cooking Notes from the Kitchen
- Marinating: For best results, marinate the oxtails overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Browning Sugar: Watch the sugar carefully as it caramelizes to avoid burning, which can impart a bitter taste.
- Oven Cooking: Ensure your pot is oven-safe, and check the stew periodically to maintain the desired liquid level.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice and peas or steamed white rice to soak up the rich gravy.
What can I use instead of oxtail?
If oxtail is unavailable or too expensive, turkey necks are a great alternative. They offer a similar texture and absorb flavors well.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on the amount of scotch bonnet pepper used. For a milder dish, use less pepper or remove the seeds.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried navy beans?
Yes, canned navy beans can be used. Add them later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Is it necessary to use Angostura bitters?
Angostura bitters add depth to the flavor but are optional. The dish will still be delicious without them.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Slow‑Braised Coconut Oxtail Stew with Navy Beans
Ingredients
- 2 lb oxtail trimmed and cut into even pieces
- 1 small onion diced
- 1/3 scotch bonnet pepper seeded and diced
- 6 grape tomatoes halved
- 1 tablespoon Caribbean Green Seasoning
- 2/3 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspon tomato ketchup
- 2-4 drops Angostura bitters optional
- 1 tablespoom vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup navy beans soaked, drained
- 1 stalk scallion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 1/2 cupes water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the oxtails with diced onion, grape tomatoes, diced scotch bonnet pepper, Caribbean green seasoning, salt, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, black pepper, and Angostura bitters (if using). Mix well to coat the oxtails evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a heavy, oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the brown sugar and stir continuously with a dry spoon until it melts, becomes frothy, and turns an amber color.
- Quickly add the marinated oxtails to the pot, including any marinade juices. Stir well to coat the oxtails in the caramelized sugar. Cover the pot and cook on medium heat for about 7 minutes.
- Remove the lid and increase the heat to high. Cook until the liquid reduces and the oxtails are evenly browned. This process enhances the flavor and color of the dish. to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
- Add the soaked navy beans (discard soaking water), chopped scallion, minced garlic, thyme sprigs, water, coconut milk, and allspice berries to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Cover the pot and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 3.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure there is enough liquid. If necessary, add up to 1/2 cup of water or coconut milk to maintain the desired consistency.
- Once the oxtails are tender and the beans are cooked, remove the pot from the oven. Discard the thyme sprigs and allspice berries. Skim off any excess oil from the surface. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
