🥘 Tender Braised Oxtail with Watercress – A Bold and Comforting Dish
Looking for a rich, satisfying meal that brings comfort and flavor in every bite? This braised oxtail with fresh watercress is a traditional Brazilian-inspired recipe that combines hearty, slow-cooked meat with peppery greens, creating a dish full of depth and soul.
Perfect for Sunday lunch or special family dinners, this dish is best served with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed white rice.
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) oxtail, cleaned and cut into pieces
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 bunch fresh watercress, washed thoroughly
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 shot of cachaça (or substitute with dry white wine or brandy)
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for cooking
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clean the Oxtail
Start by cleaning the oxtail thoroughly. Rub it with the juice of the limes and rinse well. This helps to remove any excess fat or strong odor from the meat, which is essential for a clean-tasting dish.
2. Sear and Sauté
In a pressure cooker, heat a drizzle of oil and sauté the oxtail pieces with the chopped onion, garlic, and chili pepper. Stir frequently until the meat is browned on all sides and the aromatics are golden.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add the diced tomatoes and a generous pinch of salt. Stir well to combine and release the juices. Then pour in just enough water to cover the meat. Secure the lid of the pressure cooker.
4. Pressure Cook
Cook on high pressure for 40 minutes. This slow braising under pressure breaks down the connective tissues, making the meat incredibly tender and flavorful.
5. Finishing Touches
Once the pressure has released naturally, open the lid and add the bay leaf and a splash of cachaça. Simmer for another 5–6 minutes uncovered to enhance the flavor and slightly reduce the sauce.
6. Add the Watercress
Turn off the heat and gently fold in the fresh watercress. The residual heat will wilt the greens without overcooking them, preserving their color and slight peppery taste.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with steamed white rice
- Pair with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or cassava purée
- Add farofa (toasted cassava flour) for a traditional Brazilian touch
✅ Why This Dish Works
- Rich in Flavor: Oxtail is a gelatinous cut, perfect for slow cooking, releasing incredible depth of flavor.
- Balanced Nutrition: Watercress adds freshness, vitamins, and a subtle peppery bite that balances the richness of the meat.
- Cultural Comfort Food: A dish rooted in tradition that warms the soul and satisfies the palate.
- Impressive Yet Easy: Simple steps yield restaurant-quality results with minimal ingredients.
🌿 Tips for Success
- If you don’t have cachaça, a splash of dry white wine or brandy works well.
- Want more depth? Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce when simmering.
- For a spicier version, leave the seeds in the chili or add crushed red pepper flakes.
🥄 Final Thoughts
This braised oxtail with watercress is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of traditional cooking with modern comfort. Each bite delivers bold flavor, rich sauce, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a hearty homemade dish, this recipe deserves a spot on your table.
