Irresistible One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau Recipe

Name: One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 lbs oxtail; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 large sweet onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 pimento peppers, chopped (or substitute with jalapeños); 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 cup coconut milk; 1.5 cups long-grain rice; 2 carrots, thinly sliced; 2 cups chicken stock (or water); 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium); 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

December 11, 2025

Updated:

December 11, 2025

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Imagine walking into a kitchen filled with the warm, comforting aroma of One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau. The savory scent wafts through the air, promising a delightful culinary experience that dances on your taste buds. Each spoonful reveals tender oxtail simmered with colorful vegetables and fragrant spices, creating a dish that’s as vibrant as a Caribbean sunset.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with friends and family, sharing stories and laughter. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau is sure to be the star of the show, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty.
The rich flavor profile blends smoky, sweet, and savory notes that will transport your taste buds.
Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it makes any meal feel festive.
It’s versatile enough for special occasions or simply enjoying on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Every time I make this dish, my family can hardly wait for it to finish cooking. The excitement is palpable as they gather in the kitchen, eyes wide and mouths watering.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Oxtail: Look for meaty pieces that have some fat; they will become beautifully tender during cooking.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—for visual appeal and sweetness.
Onions: Sweet onions are ideal; they add depth to the flavor profile when sautéed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic kick; don’t skimp on them!
Pimento Peppers: These add a unique flavor reminiscent of Caribbean cuisine; find them fresh if possible.
Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the dish with its fragrant herbaceous notes.
Coconut Milk: This creamy addition gives an incredible richness to your pelau.
Rice: Long-grain rice works best; it absorbs all those delicious flavors beautifully.
Carrots: Sliced thinly for sweetness and crunch; they’re also great for color contrast in your dish.
Chicken Stock or Water: Use stock for added flavor; it’s like giving your pelau a warm hug!
Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth; choose low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
Scotch Bonnet Pepper (optional): For those who love heat, this pepper will spice things up nicely!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau

How to Make One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping all your veggies—bell peppers, onions, carrots—into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Don’t forget to mince that garlic!

Sear the Oxtail: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add oil. Sear the oxtails until they’re browned on all sides—this enhances their flavor tremendously.

Add Aromatics: Toss in the onions and garlic once the meat is browned. Sauté until translucent and fragrant—your kitchen should smell divine by now!

Add Vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, carrots, and pimento peppers. Let them cook down slightly until softening—this creates a colorful base full of flavor.

Add Rice & Liquid: Pour in rinsed rice along with coconut milk and chicken stock. Mix well while ensuring everything is submerged; this is where magic happens!

Cook It Down: Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover tightly and let simmer for about 45 minutes—don’t lift that lid too often!

This One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau will have you feeling like a culinary genius as you serve up heaping portions filled with tender oxtail paired with perfectly cooked rice infused with spices. Enjoy every last bite!

You Must Know

One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau delivers a symphony of flavors.
The rich, tender oxtail melds beautifully with the vibrant rice and spices.
This dish is perfect for gatherings, and its aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the oxtails to lock in flavor, then sauté vegetables while the rice cooks. This sequence ensures each element is infused with delicious juices.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap oxtail for beef chuck or add coconut milk for creaminess. Customize seasoning to match your taste preferences and make it your own.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always season your oxtail generously before browning it; this elevates the base flavor immensely.
Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking and browning.
Allow the dish to rest after cooking; flavors meld beautifully during this time.

Cooking this One-Pot Caribbean Oxtail Pelau transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter mingled with savory aromas filling the air.

FAQ

What can I substitute for oxtail in this recipe?

Beef chuck or short ribs work well if you can’t find oxtail.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, it’s even better when made ahead, allowing flavors to deepen overnight.

How do I know when the oxtail is tender?

Oxtails should be fork-tender after about two hours of simmering; check often!

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