Homemade Bone Broth Recipe With Healthy Ingredients Showing Top Tips

Nothing brings comfort in a world of culinary discovery like a steaming pot of homemade bone broth recipe. A perfect fusion of flavor and nutrition, this broth, extracted from carefully selected bones, is as hearty as it is savory. 

While many broth recipes occupy the virtual landscape, our version promises an aromatic treasure trove of flavors that adds a timeless charm to any meal. Consider this the secret ingredient, a whisper from grandma’s kitchen, a testament to the art of slow-cooking. 

Enriched with healthful minerals and collagen, it’s a wellness elixir that can be enjoyed on its own or as a base for countless recipes. Trust us, once you’ve experienced the depth of flavor this broth brings to the table, your culinary world will never be the same. 

So get ready to embark on this gastronomic journey and bring the magic of homemade bone broth into your kitchen.

What Is Homemade Bone Broth?

A homemade bone broth recipe involves simmering animal bones, often with vegetables, herbs and spices, over a long period. This slow-cooking process releases minerals, collagen, and amino acids, creating a rich, nutrient-dense liquid. 

The result is a savory broth that has a depth of flavor and is also loaded with health benefits. It can be consumed on its own or used as a base for soups, sauces, and other dishes, adding a delectable touch to your home cooking.

History Of Homemade Bone Broth 

The history of homemade bone broth is as rich as the broth itself, tracing its origins back to prehistoric times. Our ancestors, seeking to utilize every part of the animal, boiled leftover bones and scraps in water to extract the nutrients. 

This practice transcended cultural and geographical boundaries, with variations of bone broth appearing in culinary traditions worldwide. 

From the revitalizing ‘caldos’ of Latin America to the soothing ‘broods’ of Italy and the healing ‘tonkatsu’ broth of Japan, each culture adds its unique spin. Today, this humble, hearty liquid is a testament to our culinary ingenuity and desire for wholesome sustenance.

Interesting Facts About The Homemade Bone Broth 

• Nutrient Powerhouse: Bone broth is rich in nutrients like collagen, glycine, proline, and glutamine. These nutrients contribute to several health benefits, including improved gut health, joint protection, and better sleep.
• Traditional Medicine: Cultures worldwide have used bone broth in traditional medicine for centuries. It’s often used to heal the digestive system, detoxify the body, and boost the immune system.
• Culinary Versatility: Bone broth is not just a health tonic but also a culinary staple used in various dishes. From stews and soups to risottos and sauces, bone broth adds depth and richness to many recipes.
• Long Cooking Time: It takes a long time to make bone broth – typically 12-48 hours. This slow-cooking process is necessary to extract the nutrients and flavors from the bones fully.
• Nose-to-Tail Philosophy: Making bone broth aligns with the “nose-to-tail” philosophy of using every part of the animal in cooking, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability.
• Modern Revival: Although it’s an ancient practice, making bone broth has seen a revival in recent years due to its health benefits and the popularity of dietary trends like the paleo and keto diets.

What Makes The Homemade Bone Broth Special? 

Homemade bone broth is distinctive in the culinary world for various reasons. Its preparation requires time, patience, and an appreciation for slow, thoughtful cooking – aspects that make it stand out in our fast-paced, instant-gratification society. The simmering process extracts every bit of goodness from the bones, yielding a deeply nourishing and flavorful broth, far superior to store-bought versions.

Moreover, its versatility in the kitchen is unparalleled. Bone broth can enhance the taste of myriad dishes or be savored in its pure form. Whether used as a robust base for soups, stews, sauces, or gravies, it injects depth and complexity of flavor that’s hard to match.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Meaty Beef Soup Bones	4 lbs.
Medium Onions (quartered)	2
Medium Carrots (chopped)	3 (optional)
Warm Water (110° to 115° F)	1/2 cup
Bay Leaves	3
Garlic Cloves	3
Whole Peppercorns	8 to 10
Cold Water	As needed

Ingredient Tips 

• Bone Selection: Choose high-quality bones from grass-fed or free-range animals. You can use a mix of different bones – marrow bones, knuckles, and even feet. This will give your broth a richer flavor and nutritional profile.
• Vegetable Scraps: Save your vegetable peels, ends, and scraps. Onions, carrots, and celery add depth to your broth. Remember to include a few cloves of garlic for an extra flavor boost.
• Acid is Essential: Adding an acid like apple cider vinegar helps break down the bones and extract valuable minerals and collagen. Allow the bones to rest in the vinegar-water mix for 30 minutes before simmering.
• Roast the Bones: For a deeper, more complex flavor, consider roasting the bones before simmering. This can help caramelize the natural sugars in the bones and provide a richer taste.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with various herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add an extra dimension of flavor. Peppercorns, bay leaves, or star anise also work well.
• Fat Removal: After refrigerating, a layer of fat will solidify on top. This can be easily removed or stirred into the broth for added richness.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

The beauty of homemade bone broth is its flexibility. Here’s how you can modify the recipe to cater to different dietary preferences:

• Keto and Paleo: Bone broth is inherently keto and paleo-friendly, high in protein and collagen, and free from processed ingredients. To amp up the healthy fats for keto, consider using marrow-rich bones or stirring in a spoonful of ghee or coconut oil before consuming.
• Gluten-Free: Again, traditional bone broth is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added sauces or flavorings are also free from gluten.
• Whole30: This program emphasizes whole foods and eliminates sugar, alcohol, grains, legumes, soy, and dairy. Bone broth is an excellent fit, especially with organic, grass-fed bones. Avoid adding any non-compliant ingredients.
• Vegetarian and Vegan: While you will only achieve the same depth of flavor and nutrient profile with bones, you can still make a hearty vegetable broth. Use a variety of vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, garlic, mushrooms for umami, and seaweed to boost minerals. Roast the vegetables before simmering to enhance the flavor.

Recipe Directions

• Place bones in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drain, discard liquid, and wash bones.
• Preheat the oven to 450°. Roast boiled bones and optional carrots and onions for 60-75 minutes until brown. Drain fat.
• Transfer bones and vegetables to a large pot. Deglaze the roasting pan with warm water, and pour into the pot.
• Add seasonings and enough cold water to cover, and slowly boil for 30 minutes. Simmer for 8-24 hours, skim bubbles, and add water as needed.
• Excellent and strain broth through a cheesecloth-lined colander. Discard solids, skim fat, or refrigerate to remove fat. Serve or store as you like.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Chicken bones can be used for a lighter, poultry-based broth.
• Add a splash of wine or cider vinegar for a more complex flavor before simmering.
• Try adding different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique aromatic touch.

Add-Ons

• After straining the broth, add cooked meat or vegetables for a hearty soup.
• Consider adding noodles, rice, or dumplings for a more substantial dish.
• Stir in spices like turmeric or ginger for an extra health boost and flavor.

Toppings

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top just before serving.
• Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for a fresh, tangy finish.
• A spoonful of pesto or a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy, flavorful twist.
• For some heat, sprinkle on chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling a bone broth recipe up or down is straightforward, thanks to its flexible nature.

To Scale Up

• If you want to make a larger batch of bone broth, increase the quantity of bones and other ingredients proportionally. Make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. 
• Remember, the bones should be covered with water but not so much that it overflows during simmering. Increase the simmering time slightly to ensure all the nutrients and flavors are fully extracted.

To Scale Down

• To make less bone broth, reduce the quantity of bones and other ingredients in the same proportions. The key point to remember is that regardless of the quantity, the bones should always be covered with water during the simmering process. 
• Reduce the simmering time appropriately but ensure it’s simmered long enough to extract the flavors and nutrients effectively

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Garnishing a bone broth can be as simple or elaborate as you prefer, depending on how you plan to use it. Here are some options:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or cilantro can add color and a burst of freshness. If you’re leaning toward Asian flavors, green onions or coriander would be suitable.
• Spices: A sprinkle of paprika or a dash of turmeric can add a pop of color and a hint of extra flavor.
• Lemon or Lime Wedges: A small wedge of lemon or lime on the side allows everyone to adjust the acidity.
• Seeds: Lightly toasted sesame or pumpkin seeds can add a bit of crunch.
• Edible Flowers: For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with edible flowers.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Flavored Oils: A small drizzle can add a lovely sheen and richness to the broth.

Can I Make Homemade Bone Broth In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Both slow cookers and Instant Pots are excellent tools for making bone broth, and they can make the process even more hands-off.

For a Slow Cooker

• Follow the same initial steps of the recipe: boil the bones, discard the water, and then roast the bones and vegetables.
• Instead of moving everything to a pot on the stove, put them in your slow cooker. Add seasonings and enough cold water to cover the ingredients.
• Set your slow cooker to low, then let it work for 12-24 hours. If possible, skim off any foam or excess fat that surfaces during the first few hours of cooking.
• Strain, cool, and remove fat as per the original recipe.

For an Instant Pot

• If you’d like to roast the bones, you’ll need to do this in the oven as per the original recipe. However, the Instant Pot can brown the vegetables using the sauté function.
• Place the bones, browned vegetables, seasonings, and enough water to cover (but do not exceed the max fill line) in the Instant Pot.
• Secure the lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Pressure cook on high for 2-3 hours for chicken bones or 3-4 hours for beef bones.
• Allow the pressure to release naturally, then open the lid and let the broth cool a bit.
• Strain, cool, and remove fat, as in the original recipe.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

While store-bought broth can be convenient, making your bone broth at home has several advantages.

• Control Over Ingredients: When you make bone broth at home, you know exactly what goes into it. This is particularly important if you’re following a specific diet or have food sensitivities. Store-bought broths often contain added sodium, sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
• Quality: Homemade bone broth is typically superior in quality. You can choose the best quality bones from grass-fed or organic sources and the freshest vegetables.
• Nutrient Density: Homemade bone broth is often more nutrient-dense than store-bought versions, as it’s typically simmered longer, allowing for more nutrient extraction from the bones.
• Cost Efficiency: Making bone broth at home can be more cost-effective, especially using leftover bones from other meals.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

The beauty of homemade bone broth is its versatility. You can experiment with different types of ingredients, depending on your preference. Here’s a brief guide on how you can diversify your bone broth:

• Meat: While beef bones are often used for bone broth, you can also use chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb bones. Each will offer a slightly different flavor profile. Add meat, such as shredded chicken or diced beef, to the finished broth for a heartier soup.
• Fish: Fish bones, particularly from fatty fish like salmon, can make a nutritious and flavorful broth. The cooking time for fish broth is typically shorter than for meat bone broth.
• Pasta: Adding cooked pasta, such as egg noodles, fusilli, or even tortellini, can transform your bone broth into a filling meal. Remember to cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup before serving to prevent it from becoming overly soft.
• Vegetables: You can add virtually any vegetable to the bone broth. Root vegetables, such as carrots, turnips, and parsnips, add sweetness and body to the broth. Leafy greens, like spinach or kale, can be added toward the end of the cooking time for a nutrient boost.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Soup

Making bone broth at home is a fairly straightforward process, but a few tips and tricks can help ensure you get the best results:

Prepping Tips

• Use Quality Bones: Start with high-quality bones from grass-fed or organically-raised animals. This leads to a better-tasting broth and ensures the highest nutrient content.
• Roast the Bones: For a deeper flavor, roast the bones in the oven until they’re well-browned before simmering them. This step isn’t necessary but can greatly enhance the taste of your broth.
• Acid is Important: Adding a bit of acid, like vinegar or lemon juice, can help extract more nutrients from the bones. It won’t affect the taste but will make your broth more nutrient-dense.

Cooking Tips

• Low and Slow: Bone broth should be simmered over low heat. A rapid boil can cause the broth to become cloudy and can also lead to a less flavorful result.
• Skim the Scum: In the initial stages of simmering, you may notice some foam or “scum” forming on the surface of the broth. Skim this off with a spoon to ensure a clear, clean-tasting broth.
• Don’t Rush the Straining: When it’s time to strain the broth, take your time and do it carefully. A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth will ensure you remove all the solids and are left with just the pure, flavorful broth.
• Cool Quickly: To ensure safety and freshness, cool your broth as quickly as possible before refrigerating. You can do this by placing the pot of broth in an ice bath and stirring frequently.

Nutritional Values  

Delve into the nutritional richness of homemade bone broth, a powerhouse of essential minerals, vitamins, and proteins. Its healing properties, like boosting gut health and supporting joint mobility, make this ancient elixir a must-have in your diet. Dive into wellness with every soothing sip.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

The total calories in homemade bone broth can vary greatly depending on the ingredients and quantities used. However, one cup of homemade bone broth typically contains about 80-100 calories.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Homemade Bone Broth

Homemade bone broth is highly adaptable and can be suitable for various dietary restrictions with a few modifications:

• Gluten-Free: As long as you don’t add pasta, barley, or other gluten-containing ingredients, your bone broth will be gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Bone broth is naturally dairy-free.
• Nut-Free: Bone broth doesn’t contain any nuts.
• Paleo & Keto: Bone broth is both paleo and keto-friendly, providing high-quality animal protein and fat.
• Low-FODMAP: If made without onions, garlic, or other high-FODMAP ingredients, bone broth can be suitable for a low-FODMAP diet.
• Low-Sodium: You can control the sodium level by adjusting the amount of added salt.

Health Benefits Of Homemade Bone Broth

Homemade bone broth brings an array of health benefits due to its nutrient-dense composition:

• Rich in Nutrients: Bone broth is packed with essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It’s also high in collagen and gelatin, which may benefit skin health and joint health respectively.
• Gut Health: The gelatin in bone broth can help strengthen the gut lining, which can be beneficial for individuals with leaky gut syndrome and other digestive issues.
• Supports Immune System: Bone broth is often hailed for its immune-boosting properties due to the concentration of minerals and amino acids, which can support overall immune function.
• Bone and Joint Health: The collagen and other nutrients can help promote bone health and reduce joint pain.
• Aids in Sleep and Brain Function: Glycine, an amino acid found in bone broth, has been shown to improve sleep and cognitive function.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Homemade Bone Broth Lower In Sodium? 

Making your homemade bone broth lower in sodium is quite straightforward. Here are a few tips:

• No Added Salt: The most straightforward way is not to add salt during cooking. This gives you complete control over the sodium content.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables instead of canned or pre-packaged ones, often containing added salt.
• Watch Your Seasonings: Some seasonings and flavor enhancers, like soy sauce or bouillon cubes, are high in sodium. Opt for fresh or dried herbs and spices instead.
• Rinse Bones: If you’re using pre-packaged bones, particularly smoked ones, rinse them thoroughly before use to remove any surface salt.

How Can I Make Homemade Bone Broth Lower In Sugar?

Bone broth naturally contains minimal to no sugar, as it’s made from bones, water, and typically savory vegetables and seasonings. However, here are a few tips to ensure your bone broth remains low in sugar:

• Avoid Sweet Vegetables: Certain vegetables like carrots, onions, and tomatoes contain natural sugars that can add a sweet flavor to the broth. If you’re concerned about sugar content, you can limit or avoid these.
• Check Your Seasonings: Some premixed seasonings or sauces can contain added sugars. Always check the labels and opt for sugar-free versions.
• Skip the Wine: Some bone broth recipes suggest adding a splash of wine for flavor. Alcohol often contains sugar, so it’s best to avoid this to minimize sugar content.

How To Serve The Homemade Bone Broth Best?

Bone broth is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste and needs best. Here are some suggestions:

• Simple Shipping: Warm it up and sip it from a mug like tea or coffee. This is a common way to enjoy bone broth, especially for its health benefits.
• Soup Base: Use it as a base for soups or stews. Add your favorite proteins, vegetables, and grains for a hearty meal.
• Sauce Deglazing: Use it to deglaze a pan after cooking meat or vegetables, which can form the base of a flavorful sauce or gravy.
• Cooking Liquid: Use it instead of water when cooking grains like rice or quinoa to infuse them with flavor.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze the broth in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for easy portioning.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Homemade Bone Broth

The side dishes that pair well with bone broth largely depend on how the broth is served. Here are some ideas:

• Crusty Bread: If you’re serving the bone broth as a soup, a side of crusty bread or a warm baguette is a great option. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Fresh Salad: A light, fresh salad can balance the rich, savory flavor of the bone broth. You could go for a simple green salad or something more robust like a Greek salad or a Caprese salad.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: If you’re using bone broth as a base for a meat dish, side dishes like steamed broccoli, roasted brussels sprouts, or caramelized carrots will complement it well.
• Rice or Quinoa: If the broth is served with added proteins, a side of rice, quinoa, or another grain can make it a complete meal.
• Noodles: Serving bone broth with a side of noodles can transform it into a comforting, filling dish similar to a noodle soup.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Storing homemade bone broth properly can extend its life and maintain its quality. Here are the general guidelines:

• Refrigeration: After making the broth, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. In the refrigerator, the bone broth should last for up to 5-7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the broth. It’s best to freeze the broth in portion-sized containers or ice cube trays for easy use later. In the freezer, the broth can last for up to 6 months. Remember to label the containers with the date to keep track of the storage time.
• Reheating: When ready to use, if refrigerated, heat the broth on the stove until hot. If frozen, you can either thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight or directly reheat it on the stove or microwave.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Bone broth is a perfect candidate for making in advance. It’s often more flavorful a day or two after it’s been made, as this allows the flavors to meld together.

After making the broth, let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer, following the storage guidelines provided earlier.

When you’re ready to serve the broth, reheat it on the stove until it’s hot. If you’ve frozen the broth, you can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or directly reheat it from frozen.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover bone broth is incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous ways to enhance the flavor of your dishes:

• Soup Base: Utilize your leftover bone broth as a base for other soups or stews. It will add a depth of flavor unmatched by store-bought broths.
• Gravy: Thicken the broth with a bit of flour or cornstarch to create a delicious gravy for meat dishes.
• Risotto: Replace the water or stock typically used in risotto with bone broth for an extra savory taste.
• Cooking Grains: Cook grains like rice or quinoa in the broth to infuse them with flavor.
• Steaming Vegetables: Use broth as the steaming liquid for vegetables to add a layer of complexity to their taste.
• Braising Liquid: Use the broth as a braising liquid for meats or vegetables, giving them a delightful taste and tenderness.
• Sauce Deglazing: Deglaze your pan after frying or sautéing with bone broth to create a flavorful pan sauce.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

Making homemade bone broth doesn’t require any specialized tools, but having the following items can make the process easier and more efficient:

• Stockpot or Slow Cooker: A large or slow cooker is essential for simmering the bones and ingredients over a long period.
• Cheesecloth or Fine Mesh Strainer: These are used to strain the broth at the end to remove any small bone fragments, herbs, or spices, resulting in a clear liquid.
• Large Spoon or Ladle: To stir the ingredients and skim off any impurities that may arise during cooking.
• Storage Containers: You’ll need containers to store the finished broth in the refrigerator or freezer. Mason jars, food-grade plastic containers, or freezer-safe bags work well.
• Cutting Board and Knife: To chop the onions, carrots, garlic, and any other vegetables if you include them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients like water, salt, or other seasonings.
• Fine-mesh Sieve or Skimmer: Useful for skimming off any foam that may develop during the initial stages of cooking bone broth.
• Oven Mitts or Pot Holders: The pot or slow cooker can get quite hot during the simmering process, so oven mitts or pot holders are handy for handling it safely.
• Food Storage Labels: If you plan to freeze the broth in containers, labels will help you identify the date and contents of each batch.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Chicken Bones Instead Of Beef Bones For The Bone Broth?

Absolutely! Chicken bones, particularly the neck, feet, and carcasses can make a wonderfully flavorful broth. The process is identical, and you can even mix types of bones for a more complex flavor profile.

My Bone Broth Isn’t Gelatinous. Did I Do Something Wrong?

Not necessarily. The level of gelatin in your broth depends on the types of bones used. Bones with more connective tissue, like knuckles and feet, yield a more gelatinous broth. Also, a longer simmer time can extract more gelatin. However, even if your broth isn’t thick, it’s still packed with nutrients and flavor.

Can I Reuse The Bones To Make Another Batch Of Broth?

Yes, you can reuse bones for a second batch, but remember that each batch will be less flavorful and nutrient-rich than the last. It’s best to use fresh bones whenever possible for the most health benefits and flavor.

What Should I Do If The Broth Tastes Too Watery?

If your broth tastes too watery, it may be due to insufficient bones or a short simmer time. Try adding more bones next time or simmering the broth longer to extract more flavor. You can also reduce the current broth further on the stove to concentrate the flavors.

What’s The Difference Between Bone Broth And Regular Broth Or Stock?

Bone broth, stock, and broth are similar but have key differences. Bone broth is simmered for much longer (often over 24 hours), which helps extract more nutrients from the bones. Stock is typically made with bones and a small amount of meat, simmered for less time. The broth is made with more meat and fewer bones and is simmered for the shortest time. The result is different flavors, textures, and nutrient levels in each.