How to make Jamaican style Oxtail in Instant Pot

butter beans

🥗Healthier: cannellini beans

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Pinto beans are often less expensive and have a similar texture.

oxtail

🥗Healthier: beef shank

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are more affordable and provide a different but flavorful option.

Clean the oxtail and trim excess fat if necessary, then rinse with vinegar and water.

Season the oxtail with oxtail seasoning, paprika, black pepper, crushed allspice berries, and brown sugar; rub the seasoning into the meat thoroughly.

Add green seasoning (blend of garlic, scotch bonnet, ginger, onion, scallion, thyme) to the oxtail and mix well.

Cover the seasoned oxtail and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to marinate.

Select the sauté setting on the Instant Pot and add olive oil and butter.

Sear the oxtail on both sides for 1.5 to 2 minutes until browned, then set aside.

Add the marinade liquid to the pot, followed by chopped onion, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic; stir to combine.

Add water to deglaze the pot, then stir in soy sauce and a small amount of ketchup.

Add sprigs of thyme and minced scotch bonnet pepper, then return the browned oxtail to the pot.

Close the lid, ensuring it is set to sealing, and pressure cook for 40 to 50 minutes.

Allow for a natural release after cooking, then open the Instant Pot and scoop off excess fat using a ladle.

Remove the oxtail pieces to work on the gravy, then set the Instant Pot to sauté.

Add scallion and a slurry made from cornstarch and water to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Stir in Worcestershire sauce (optional), more soy sauce, and fresh thyme; taste the gravy for seasoning.

Add a whole scotch bonnet to control heat, then let the gravy reduce while stirring occasionally.

Return the oxtail to the gravy, ensuring it absorbs the flavors, and check the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.

Gently stir in butter beans and continue to reduce the gravy, allowing the oxtail to absorb the flavors.

Once the gravy is reduced and thickened, serve the oxtail with rice or rice and peas.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary