Oxtails plate with candied sweet potatoes, baked mac and cheese

Together, these three elements create a well-rounded, soulful meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or anytime you want something hearty and comforting. It’s a classic combination that never disappoints and always leaves people coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

For the Oxtails:

• 2 lbs oxtails
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 bay leaf

For Candied Sweet Potatoes:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Baked Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Oxtails:

1. Season oxtails with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat oil in a large pot and brown oxtails on all sides.
3. Remove and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
4. Stir in tomato paste, then add beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
5. Return oxtails, cover, and simmer on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.

Candied Sweet Potatoes:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place sliced sweet potatoes in a baking dish.
3. Melt butter and mix with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
4. Pour over sweet potatoes, cover with foil, and bake 40 minutes.
5. Uncover and bake another 15 minutes until caramelized.

Baked Mac and Cheese:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour, and cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
4. Add cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until melted.
5. Mix with pasta, transfer to a baking dish, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes until golden.