Imagine sinking your fork into a tender piece of oxtail, simmered slowly in a rich, savory sauce that warms you from the inside out. That’s the magic of Coda Alla Vaccinara, a beloved dish that hails from the beautiful streets of Rome. This historical stew is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that reflects the heart and soul of Italian cooking.
Originating from the Roman culinary tradition, Coda Alla Vaccinara has been enjoyed for generations. The dish showcases the unique flavors of Italy, combining aromatic herbs, sweet and savory vegetables, and hearty oxtail. In this article, you’ll learn how to make Coda Alla Vaccinara at home, explore its ingredients, discover variations, and get insider tips for perfecting this rustic delicacy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Oxtail | 2 pounds | Rich in gelatin, oxtail is the star of this dish, providing a deep, meaty flavor. |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity, peppery note that enhances the overall taste. |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped | Chopped onions form the aromatic base, releasing sweetness as they cook down. |
| Carrots | 2, diced | Carrots contribute sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the meat. |
| Celery | 2 stalks, diced | Celery adds a subtle crunch and additional flavor depth to the sauce. |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and depth of flavor in Coda Alla Vaccinara. |
| Tomato paste | 3 tablespoons | Thick and concentrated, tomato paste adds a rich tangy flavor to the sauce. |
| Red wine | 1 cup | A splash of red wine provides acidity and complexity, lifting the dish to new heights. |
| Beef broth | 4 cups | Broth enriches the stew and brings it all together for that comforting taste. |
| Bay leaves | 2 | Providing a fragrant, herbal note, bay leaves are essential for traditional flavors. |
| Parsley | Fresh, for garnish | Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightens up the rich dish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients – Start by chopping your fresh vegetables and mincing the garlic. This prep will help ensure a smooth cooking process and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Brown the Oxtail – In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the oxtail pieces and brown them on all sides. This caramelization adds depth to your Coda Alla Vaccinara sauce.
- Sauté the Vegetables – Remove the browned oxtail and set aside. In the same pot, toss in your onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. The goal is to develop a sweet, aromatic base for the stew.
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste – Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another few minutes until fragrant. This mixture is where the magic begins; it’s the heart of your homemade Coda Alla Vaccinara.
- Deglaze with Red Wine – Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.
- Combine Ingredients – Return the browned oxtail to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add bay leaves. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot to simmer.
- Slow Cook – Let the stew simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the oxtail is fork-tender. The longer it cooks, the more flavors develop in this classic Italian oxtail stew.
- Serve and Garnish – Once ready, remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with rustic bread or creamy polenta.
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, let the stew sit overnight in the fridge, then reheat before serving. The tastes meld together wonderfully!
- Use a mix of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor. Just toss them in during cooking for a fragrant finish.
- If you’re short on time, a pressure cooker can cut down cooking time drastically while still delivering tender results.
- Experiment with spices like crushed red pepper for a hint of heat or some cocoa powder for depth.
- To create a more complex sauce, add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving to enhance the sweetness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Saturated Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 25g |
FAQs
What is the best way to store Coda Alla Vaccinara?
Store your leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually tastes better the next day!
Can Coda Alla Vaccinara be made vegan or gluten-free?
For a vegan version, you might consider using seitan instead of oxtail and vegetable broth. Just note, the flavors will differ significantly from the traditional recipe.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Coda Alla Vaccinara?
Rustic bread, creamy polenta, or a simple green salad pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.
How long does it take to prepare Coda Alla Vaccinara?
Overall, expect about 3 to 4 hours, including prep and cooking time. It’s worth every second!
Can I freeze Coda Alla Vaccinara for later?
Yes, you can freeze the stew! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What kind of wine should I use for Coda Alla Vaccinara?
A good-quality dry red wine works best. Chianti or Merlot are popular choices that complement the flavors beautifully.
Can I use other cuts of meat instead of oxtail?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ. Short ribs or chuck roast can be good substitutes for a similar experience.
Is Coda Alla Vaccinara a popular dish outside of Italy?
While it’s primarily enjoyed in Italy, this comforting stew has a growing fanbase worldwide, especially among those who appreciate traditional Italian cuisine.
Now that you’ve explored how to create delicious Coda Alla Vaccinara, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a journey into the flavors of Rome. Serving it hot, nestled beside some crusty bread or creamy polenta, is sure to impress family and friends alike.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and dive into a plate of this hearty oxtail stew. Did you try this recipe? Let us know your experience in the comments!
