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Vegan Oxtail Recipe

Savory Vegan Oxtail Recipe

Deep, rich, and slow-simmered, this vegan oxtail recipe delivers the same comforting depth as the classic dish, without meat. You’ll love it for cozy dinners, weekend cooking, or anytime you crave bold, hearty plant-based flavor.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 Serving
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the “Oxtail” Base
  • 2 cups oyster mushrooms, thickly torn
  • 1 cup king oyster mushrooms, sliced into chunks
  • 1 can (400g) young green jackfruit in brine, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Stew Base
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
For the Braising Liquid
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Finishing
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Method
 

  1. Marinate mushrooms and jackfruit with sauces and spices for at least 15 minutes so they absorb flavor deeply.
  2. Sear the mixture in hot oil until browned to create a rich base and develop texture.
  3. Add aromatics and vegetables, cooking until softened to build depth and balance.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly to intensify its flavor and remove acidity.
  5. Add liquids and seasonings, scraping the pot to incorporate all caramelized bits.
  6. Simmer on low heat for 60–75 minutes so the ingredients become tender and flavorful.
  7. Thicken with cornstarch slurry if desired, then adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

  • Always allow enough marination time so plant-based ingredients can absorb seasoning properly and avoid bland results.
  • Take your time with browning because it creates the deep, savory flavor that defines the dish.
  • Keep the simmer gentle instead of boiling rapidly to maintain the structure of mushrooms and jackfruit.
  • Taste near the end and adjust seasoning gradually so the final dish is balanced and not overly salty.