Rich, Tender Flavor: Why Smoked Oxtails Are a Game-Changer

Oxtails are known for their rich, gelatinous texture, but smoking them takes that to a whole new level. The low-and-slow smoke gently breaks down the collagen and connective tissue, transforming the meat into tender, fall-off-the-bone perfection. At the same time, the smoke infuses deep, savory flavors that complement the natural richness of the oxtail. This method enhances a classic comfort dish by adding complexity and depth, making smoked oxtails a satisfying and flavorful experience every time.

Big Joe® Grill - Series III: The Ultimate Smoker for Bold Flavors

The Big Joe® Grill - Series III is built to handle the demands of smoking tough cuts like oxtails with ease. Its superior heat retention and precise airflow control allow for consistent, low-and-slow cooking—key to breaking down collagen and achieving tender, flavorful results. The grill’s large cooking surface gives you plenty of room to smoke a full batch, while the durable ceramic construction ensures excellent heat insulation and moisture retention. All these features combine to help you create perfectly balanced, smoky tenderness every time you fire up the Big Joe®.

Mastering Low and Slow: Smoking Oxtails on Your Kamado Joe

Smoking oxtails requires patience and precise temperature control, and the Kamado Joe is designed to make that easier. Maintaining a consistent low temperature—typically between 225°F and 275°F—is key to breaking down the tough collagen slowly without drying out the meat. Choosing the right wood chunks, like hickory or apple, adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the oxtails’ natural richness. The Kamado Joe’s ceramic design provides excellent heat retention and airflow management, creating an ideal cooking environment that helps deliver tender, juicy oxtails with deep, smoky complexity every time.

Smoked Oxtails

Raciones: 8 people
Tiempo de cocción: 6+ horas
Nivel:
Principiante:
Método:
Estofado
|
Ahumado
Comida:
Otros

Ingredients

  • Main

These Smoked Jamaican Jerk Oxtails are the definition of low-and-slow comfort food with a kick. Marinated in a bold jerk seasoning and smoked over oak on the Kamado Joe Big Joe III, these oxtails are then braised in a rich beef stock with garlic and sweet onions until fall-apart tender. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or hosting a weekend cookout, this recipe delivers deep flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and unforgettable backyard aroma.

“Smoky, spicy, and fall-off-the-bone tender — these jerk oxtails are a backyard showstopper.”

The Kamado Joe Big Joe III offers unmatched heat retention, airflow control, and smoking capacity—making it the perfect grill for long cooks like this. The large cooking surface allows space for multiple pans, while the ceramic body locks in moisture and heat. Paired with wood chunks, you’ll get deep smoke flavor and even braising every time.

Instructions

  1. 01

    Place the oxtails in a large bowl or container and coat them thoroughly with Jamaican jerk marinade. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors penetrate the meat.

  2. 02

    Set up your Kamado Joe Big Joe III for indirect heat and stabilize the temperature at 250°F. Add 2–3 chunks of oak wood to the firebox for a deep, smoky flavor.

  3. 03

    Place the marinated oxtails directly on the grill grates and smoke for 2–3 hours, or until a rich color develops and the exterior is infused with oak smoke.

  4. 04

    In a large aluminum or cast iron pan, combine beef stock, kosher salt, quartered onions, and halved garlic. Carefully transfer the smoked oxtails into the pan so that each piece is partially submerged in the liquid.

  5. 05

    Cover the pan tightly with foil and return it to the grill at 250°F. Braise the oxtails for an additional 4–5 hours, or until they are fork-tender and pull away from the bone with ease.

  6. 06

    Remove the oxtails from the liquid and serve hot with your favorite sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or plantains. Spoon some of the braising liquid over top for extra richness.