How to Make Caribbean Oxtail (Stovetop and Instant Pot Guide)

An authentic Caribbean oxtail stew is rich, bold, and full of deep flavor. Whether you choose the slow-cooked method or a faster instant approach, the key is building layers and developing that thick, flavorful gravy with tender, fall-off-the-bone oxtail.

If your oxtail has ever turned out tough or lacking depth, this method shows you exactly how to get it right with simple, structured steps..every time!

For that signature taste, start with my homemade Caribbean green seasoning. It is the foundation that brings everything together. Grab the free recipe on my site and have it ready before you begin.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, rich flavor that develops as it cooks
• Consistently tender oxtail that melts off the bone
• Simple steps broken down so you’re not guessing
• True Caribbean flavor without the long cooking time 

Ingredients You’ll Need (Recipe Preview)

Seasoning Base

• Caribbean green seasoning
• All-purpose seasoning
• Bouillon seasoning
• Salt and black pepper

Herbs & Warm Spices

• Fresh thyme
• Whole pimento (allspice)
• Warm spice blend (adds depth and richness)

Browning & Cooking Base

• Oil for browning
• Browning sauce
• Cooking liquid (for building the gravy)

Stew Base

• Onion
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Scallions
• Bell peppers
• Scotch bonnet pepper
• Sweetener (for balance)
• Tomato-based element
• Additional seasoning to taste

Key Tips Before You Start

• Brown your oxtail well to build deep flavor and rich color from the start
• Season oxtail and let it marinate so that the flavors can soak deep into the meat before cooking
• Skim off any excess oil from the surface to keep the gravy rich, not greasy