Dominican Food at La Parada Restaurant
Dominican oxtail stew is a slow-braised meat dish where tender oxtail is cooked in a savory sauce with spices and sofrito until completely fall-apart soft. This classic comfort food is a staple at Dominican restaurants like La Parada.
Recommended$$ price range
La Parada Restaurant
- Location
- New York, NY
What the creator ordered
- Oxtail with rice
- Rotisserie chicken
- Lasagna
- Cuban-style sandwich with pulled pork and ham
- Steak with peppers and onions
- Mofongo with shrimp in red sauce
- Mangú (mashed plantains) with pickled red onions, fried cheese, salami, and fried eggs
- Loaded fries with ground beef, ketchup, mayo, and cheese
Standout moments
- +The video highlights a wide variety of hearty, flavorful Dominican dishes, from tender oxtail and juicy rotisserie chicken to a massive, cheesy Cuban sandwich and a savory shrimp mofongo.
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Tips & Notes
Pro tips
- Brown the oxtail pieces first in a hot pot before braising to develop deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Use low heat and cover the pot so the oxtail braises in its own steam and sauce for even, tender cooking.
- Oxtail is done when the meat pulls easily from the bone with a fork — don't undercook.
Substitutions
- oxtail → beef chuck or short ribs (similar cooking time, slightly leaner)
- sofrito → sautéed onion, garlic, and tomato paste (replaces the sofrito base)
Storage & make-ahead
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding broth if needed.
Equipment
heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven · pressure cooker (optional, reduces time to 45 minutes)
Common Questions
How long does oxtail take to become tender?
Oxtail typically requires 2-3 hours of low, moist heat (braising or slow cooking) to become fall-apart tender.
Can I use a pressure cooker for oxtail?
Yes, a pressure cooker reduces cooking time to 45-60 minutes while achieving the same tender result.
What's the best way to remove fat from oxtail stew?
Chill the finished stew overnight; the fat will solidify on top and lift away easily before reheating.
What cuts of meat work if I don't have oxtail?
Beef chuck, beef short ribs, or beef shank are good substitutes with similar cooking times and textures.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, oxtail stew freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
