Meat comes from the tail of a cow and generally includes a central bone surrounded by layers of meat and fat. Each segment contains a portion of bone marrow, which contributes to the richness and depth of flavor when cooked. Despite the name, oxtail can come from any mature cow, not necessarily an ox.
What Does Oxtail Taste Like?
Although oxtail may not be pretty to look at, its taste is worth seeing past its knobby appearance. Simply put, the oxtail tastes like beef, and when cooked, creates a deeply rich flavor. Comparing braised oxtail to a short rib, the oxtail is more tender with a silkier texture.