Beef oxtails are a popular meat cut that can be used in a variety of dishes. One ounce of beef oxtail, with bone, yields 21 calories. Despite its small serving size, beef oxtail is packed with nutrients that make it a healthy choice for any meal.

In addition to its low calorie count, beef oxtails are also a great source of protein and iron. A one-ounce serving of beef oxtail contains 2 grams of protein and 0.15 milligrams of iron. While it may not seem like much, incorporating beef oxtails into your diet can help boost your overall nutrient intake.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of beef oxtails, as well as some tips for cooking and serving them.

Calories in 1 oz Beef Oxtails

As mentioned earlier, one ounce of beef oxtail, with bone, contains 21 calories. It's important to note that this calorie count is for a raw serving size, and will change after cooking and removing the bone. To get an idea of the calorie count for your cooked beef oxtail, it is important to weigh it after cooking and removing the bone. You can then use a nutrition calculator to determine the exact calorie count based on your serving size.

Calories After Cooking, Bone Removed

After cooking and removing the bone, the calorie count for beef oxtail will change from its raw serving size. The exact number of calories will depend on factors such as cooking method and serving size. As a general rule of thumb, one pound of raw beef oxtail will yield about 8-10 ounces of cooked meat after the bone has been removed. Using this estimate, a serving size of 3-4 ounces of cooked beef oxtail will be roughly equivalent to the 1 ounce raw serving size mentioned earlier, at around 60-80 calories per serving.

Protein Content in Beef Oxtails

Beef oxtail is a great source of protein, containing 2 grams per one-ounce serving with bone. After cooking and removing the bone, a 3-4 ounce serving of cooked beef oxtail will contain around 6-8 grams of protein. Incorporating lean sources of protein like beef oxtail into your diet can help build and repair muscle tissue, boost your metabolism, and keep you feeling fuller longer.

Fat Content in Beef Oxtails

Beef oxtail is a relatively fatty cut of meat, with one-ounce serving with bone containing 1.7 grams of fat. After cooking and removing the bone, a 3-4 ounce serving of cooked beef oxtail will contain around 5-7 grams of fat. While this fat content may seem high, it is important to note that not all fats are created equal. Beef oxtail contains a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, with the latter being considered beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.

Iron Content in Beef Oxtails

Beef oxtail is an excellent source of iron, containing 0.15 milligrams of iron per one-ounce serving with bone. After cooking and removing the bone, a 3-4 ounce serving of cooked beef oxtail will contain around 0.45 - 0.6 milligrams of iron. Iron is an essential nutrient that helps transport oxygen throughout the body. Consuming enough iron can help prevent anemia, a condition characterized by low hemoglobin levels that can cause fatigue and other health issues.

Health Benefits of Beef Oxtails

In addition to its nutrient density, beef oxtail has a number of health benefits. It is a natural source of collagen, which can help promote joint health and improve skin elasticity. It also contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which have been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce inflammation in the body. Beef oxtail is also a good source of zinc, which is important for immune system function and wound healing. Lastly, incorporating beef oxtail into your diet can help diversify your protein sources and keep your meals interesting.

Cooking Methods for Beef Oxtails

Beef oxtail is a versatile meat cut that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly braised or slow-cooked to tenderize the meat and extract the rich flavor of the bone marrow. Other cooking methods for beef oxtail include grilling, roasting, or even smoking. It can also be used in soups, stews, and curries for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Size and Calories in Beef Oxtails Recipes

Beef oxtail can be used in a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to Asian-inspired broths. Due to its small serving size, it is important to incorporate other nutrient-dense ingredients into your recipes to create a well-balanced meal. Some recipe ideas for beef oxtails include Jamaican-style oxtail stew, Korean beef bone broth, or slow-cooked beef oxtail ragu. To stay within your calorie and nutrient goals, be sure to measure your serving sizes and include plenty of fresh vegetables and whole grains in your meals.

Pairing Suggestions for Beef Oxtails

Beef oxtail can be paired with a variety of flavors and textures to create a well-balanced meal. It pairs well with starchy vegetables like potatoes or carrots, as well as leafy greens like kale or spinach. Other pairing suggestions for beef oxtail include rice or other whole grains, and fresh or pickled herbs for added flavor.

How to Choose and Store Beef Oxtails

When choosing beef oxtails, look for cuts that are fresh and free of any discoloration, excessive fat, or bone fragments. If possible, opt for grass-fed or pasture-raised beef for a more sustainable and ethical choice. To store beef oxtails, wrap them tightly in plastic or freezer paper and store in the coldest part of your refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze beef oxtails for up to 6-8 months.