Preparing the Oxtails:
- Season the Oxtails: Season oxtails with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the oxtails on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove oxtails and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, ginger, scallions, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Add the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Return the oxtails to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtails are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Cooking the Rice with Peas:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, sauté garlic and onion in a bit of oil until soft. Add the thyme and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Liquids and Beans: Stir in the coconut milk, kidney beans, whole Scotch bonnet pepper, and water. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the boiling liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving.
Serving:
- Serve the tender oxtails and their rich gravy over a bed of the fragrant rice with peas. Garnish with chopped scallions or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Browning the Oxtails: Take your time browning the oxtails, as this step adds a deep, rich flavor to the dish.
- Low and Slow: The key to tender oxtails is cooking them on low heat for several hours. If you have a slow cooker, you can also use it to simmer the oxtails after browning.
- Rice Consistency: If you prefer a drier rice, reduce the amount of water slightly. The inclusion of coconut milk adds richness and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory oxtails.
This Oxtails and Rice with Peas meal is not just food; it’s a warming, comforting experience that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your dining table. Enjoy the process and the delicious payoff of this labor of love.