Serves 6–8

Don't be afraid of eating tails! These inexpensive pieces of meat are extremely tender and flavorful when braised in this fashion. If you can't find oxtails, beef or veal shanks would be a great substitute.

Fruit in Sherried Syrup

2 tablespoons sugar

4 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons dry sherry

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1 orange, peeled and segmented

2 cups fresh pineapple chunks

1½ cups kiwi slices

  1. In a small saucepan over high heat, boil the sugar and the water until syrupy. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Stir in the lemon juice and sherry; set aside.
  2. In a serving bowl, combine the orange segments, the pineapple chunks, and the kiwi. Pour the syrup over the fruit and toss to combine. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.