How to Grill Oxtails to Perfection on a Charcoal Grill

How Long to Grill Oxtails on a Charcoal Grill

Oxtails are a delicious and hearty cut of meat that is perfect for grilling. They are rich in flavor and have a slightly chewy texture that is perfect for slow cooking. When grilling oxtails, it is important to cook them low and slow so that they have time to become tender. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the oxtails, but they should generally take between 2 and 3 hours to cook.

In this article, we will discuss how to grill oxtails on a charcoal grill. We will provide tips on how to choose the right oxtails, how to prepare them for grilling, and how to cook them to perfection. We will also provide a recipe for a delicious grilled oxtail dish that you can enjoy at your next backyard barbecue.

So if you are looking for a way to cook up a delicious and flavorful meal, be sure to give grilled oxtails a try!

Temperature Time Notes
Medium-high heat 30-45 minutes per side Turn the oxtails every 10 minutes or so to ensure even cooking.
Low heat 60-90 minutes per side If you prefer a more tender oxtail, cook it low and slow.

Oxtails are a delicious and flavorful cut of meat that is perfect for grilling. They are made from the tail of the cow, and they are a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. Oxtails are also relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for a budget-friendly meal.

When grilling oxtails, it is important to cook them slowly over indirect heat. This will help to ensure that they are cooked evenly and that they do not dry out. Oxtails should be grilled until they are tender and browned, which will take about 2-3 hours.

Preparation

The first step in grilling oxtails is to choose the right cut of meat. Oxtails are typically sold in two cuts: the shank and the plate. The shank is the more tender cut, and it is the best choice for grilling. The plate is a tougher cut, and it is better suited for braising or stewing.

Once you have chosen the right cut of oxtail, you will need to marinate it. Marinating the oxtails will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor. There are many different marinades that you can use, but some of the most popular include a red wine marinade, a balsamic vinegar marinade, or a soy sauce marinade.

After the oxtails have been marinated, you will need to soak the charcoal. Soaking the charcoal will help to create a more consistent heat, and it will also help to prevent the meat from sticking to the grill.

Finally, you will need to preheat the grill. The grill should be preheated to medium heat.

Cooking

Once the grill is preheated, you can begin cooking the oxtails. The oxtails should be grilled over indirect heat. This means that the coals should be placed on one side of the grill, and the oxtails should be placed on the other side. The oxtails should be cooked until they are tender and browned, which will take about 2-3 hours.

While the oxtails are cooking, you should baste them with the marinade every 10-15 minutes. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

The oxtails are done cooking when they are tender and browned. You can test for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat. The meat should be tender and should easily pull away from the bone.

Grilled oxtails are a delicious and flavorful meal that is perfect for a summer barbecue. They are easy to cook, and they can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Oxtails are a great source of protein, iron, and zinc, and they are a budget-friendly option.

If you are looking for a new and exciting way to cook oxtails, grilling is a great option. Grilled oxtails are tender, flavorful, and they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Here are some additional tips for grilling oxtails:

  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the oxtails. The oxtails are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • If you do not have a charcoal grill, you can also grill oxtails on a gas grill. To do this, preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the oxtails over indirect heat.
  • Oxtails can also be cooked in the oven. To do this, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the oxtails for about 3 hours.
  • Oxtails can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

How Long To Grill Oxtails On Charcoal Grill?

Grilling oxtails is a great way to cook them, as it gives them a delicious smoky flavor. However, it is important to grill them for the right amount of time, so that they are cooked through but not dry.

The following is a guide on how long to grill oxtails on a charcoal grill:

  • Brining the oxtails: Oxtails are a tough cut of meat, so it is important to brine them before grilling to help tenderize them. To brine the oxtails, place them in a large bowl or container and cover them with cold water. Add 1 cup of salt per gallon of water. Let the oxtails brine for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
  • Preparing the oxtails: After the oxtails have brined, rinse them off and pat them dry. Season them with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  • Grilling the oxtails: Preheat your charcoal grill to medium heat. Place the oxtails on the grill and cook them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are browned. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the oxtails for 1-2 hours, or until they are tender.
  • Resting the oxtails: Let the oxtails rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Tips for grilling oxtails:

  • To make sure the oxtails are cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • If you are grilling the oxtails for a long time, baste them with barbecue sauce or another liquid every 30 minutes or so to keep them moist.
  • Oxtails are a great source of protein, so they are a perfect meal for a family or group of friends.

What Temperature Should I Grill Oxtails At?

The best temperature to grill oxtails at is medium heat. This will help to cook them evenly and prevent them from drying out. If you grill the oxtails at too high of a temperature, they will burn on the outside before they are cooked through on the inside.

To check the temperature of your grill, use a grill thermometer. The internal temperature of the grill should be between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

How Long Should I Marinate Oxtails Before Grilling?

Marinading oxtails before grilling is a great way to add flavor and tenderness to the meat. The length of time you marinate the oxtails will depend on your personal preference. A shorter marinade will give the oxtails a more mild flavor, while a longer marinade will result in a more intense flavor.

For a basic marinade, mix together 1 cup of olive oil, 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of vinegar, 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Marinate the oxtails in this mixture for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

What Side Dishes Go Well With Oxtails?

Oxtails are a hearty and flavorful dish, so they pair well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular side dishes for oxtails include:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice
  • Vegetables
  • Cornbread
  • Collard greens
  • Beans
  • Mac and cheese

Grilling oxtails is a great way to cook them, as it gives them a delicious smoky flavor. By following the tips in this guide, you can grill oxtails that are perfectly cooked and tender.

So next time you are looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, give grilled oxtails a try!

How long do you cook oxtails on a charcoal grill?

Oxtails should be cooked for about 2-3 hours on a charcoal grill, or until they are tender and fall off the bone.

What temperature should I cook oxtails on a charcoal grill?

Oxtails should be cooked at a medium heat, between 350F and 400F.

What is the best way to grill oxtails?

The best way to grill oxtails is to sear them over high heat for a few minutes on each side, then reduce the heat and continue to cook until they are tender.

What are some tips for grilling oxtails?

Here are a few tips for grilling oxtails:

  • Marinate the oxtails in a flavorful liquid, such as red wine, vinegar, or beer, for several hours or overnight before grilling.
  • Sear the oxtails over high heat for a few minutes on each side to create a flavorful crust.
  • Reduce the heat and continue to cook the oxtails until they are tender, about 2-3 hours.
  • Baste the oxtails with the marinade or a sauce of your choice during cooking.
  • Serve the oxtails with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

What are some common mistakes people make when grilling oxtails?

Here are a few common mistakes people make when grilling oxtails:

  • Not marinating the oxtails before grilling.
  • Cooking the oxtails at too high of a temperature.
  • Not basting the oxtails during cooking.
  • Overcooking the oxtails.

What are some of the health benefits of eating oxtails?

Oxtails are a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. They are also low in fat and calories.

Where can I buy oxtails?

Oxtails can be found at most butcher shops and grocery stores.

How do I store oxtails?

Oxtails can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Grilling oxtails on a charcoal grill is a delicious and easy way to cook this tough cut of meat. By following the steps in this guide, you can ensure that your oxtails are cooked to perfection, with a juicy and flavorful taste. Be sure to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find the perfect combination for your taste. With a little practice, you’ll be able to grill oxtails like a pro!

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

  • Oxtails are a tough cut of meat that requires long, slow cooking to become tender.
  • The best way to grill oxtails is over indirect heat on a charcoal grill.
  • Marinating oxtails in a flavorful liquid before grilling will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
  • Oxtails can be grilled for anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on their size and thickness.
  • The internal temperature of oxtails should reach 195 degrees Fahrenheit before they are considered done.
  • Oxtails can be served with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to grill some delicious oxtails!

Author Profile

Jennifer Lucks
Jennifer Lucks
With over 30 years experience, Lucks Caterers is a second generation family owned and operated business. We are committed to maintaining our family tradition of outstanding quality, excellence and reliability.
Our European trained head chef develops beautiful and delicious foods to catch the eye and satisfy the palate. Lucks provides you with imaginative and affordable menu selections.
In 2024, we embarked on a new chapter in our journey as we expanded our horizons to share our wealth of knowledge and expertise with a broader audience. With a keen focus on event management and culinary arts, we launched an informative blog aimed at empowering individuals with the insights and inspiration they need to plan unforgettable events and elevate their culinary skills.
Thank you for considering Lucks Caterers as your partner in culinary excellence. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you and create unforgettable memories together.