Mixed Bones Slow Cooker Stock – A Savory Melody To Try

In the culinary world, the value of a rich, aromatic stock can’t be overstated. It’s the secret foundation upon which countless dishes are built, imparting unrivaled layers of depth.

While many might shy away from making their own, the laborious perception of its creation is a misconception that needs debunking. Enter Mixed Bones Slow Cooker Stock—your kitchen’s unsung hero. 

This culinary gem seamlessly combines chicken, beef, and pork bones, utilizing the slow cooker’s gentle heat to extract every last nutrient and flavor. 

Ideal for soups, risottos, and gravies, it elevates your cooking to a restaurant-worthy level without demanding hours of your attention. With this simple guide, you’ll master the art of an unparalleled stock that does more than just supplement; it transforms.

What Is Mixed Bones Slow Cooker Stock?

Mixed Bones Slow Cooker Stock is a harmonious blend of chicken, beef, and pork bones, slow-cooked to culinary perfection. This versatile stock offers a complexity of flavors that one-type bone stocks can’t achieve. 

The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing time and low heat to extract the collagen, nutrients, and rich flavors from the bones. Ideal as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, this stock introduces an unparalleled depth to your dishes, turning even simple meals into gourmet experiences.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto & Paleo Stick to the original recipe but lean more on high-collagen bones like knuckles and feet. Omit starchy vegetables like turnips.
• Gluten-Free The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your vinegar and any added spices are certified gluten-free.
• Whole30 Use organic, grass-fed bones and organic vegetables to align with Whole30 guidelines.
• Vegetarian Replace bones with a medley of umami-rich mushrooms like shiitake and portobello, and add seaweed like kombu for mineral content.
• Vegan Use the vegetarian base and add nutritional yeast for a flavor boost.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Spices: Introduce aromatic spices like cloves, star anise, or peppercorns during the cooking process for an exotic twist.
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil can add layers of fragrance and flavor.
• Mushrooms: For a more earthy profile, consider adding dried shiitake or porcini mushrooms.
• Seafood: Shrimp shells or fish bones can offer a pescatarian variation, enriching the stock with oceanic flavors.
• Citrus: A splash of lemon or orange juice can brighten the stock, making it great for spring soups.
• Chilies: For a spicier edge, add whole or sliced chilies.

Can I Make Mixed Bones Slow Cooker Stock In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

• Slow Cooker: This appliance is ideal for a long, gentle simmer, allowing flavors to develop over 12 to 24 hours. Just add all the ingredients, set it on low, and let it do the work.
• Instant Pot: If you’re pressed for time, the Instant Pot’s pressure-cooking function can expedite the process. You can achieve a similar depth of flavor in a fraction of the time, often within 2 to 3 hours on the ‘Bone Broth‘ or ‘Soup’ setting.

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

• Store-Bought: Convenient and quick, store-bought options are great when you’re short on time. However, they often contain added sodium and preservatives and may need more depth of flavor and nutrients found in homemade stock.
• Homemade: Making your own stock offers complete control over ingredients, flavor, and nutritional content. It’s free from additives and can be customized to your dietary needs. The process is time-consuming but yields a richer, more flavorful result.

How To Serve ?

• Temperature: Serve it piping hot. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve flavors.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds color and freshness.
• Companions: Pair with crusty bread, whole grain crackers, or a side of steamed vegetables.
• Bowl Selection: Use warm bowls to keep the stock hot for longer.
• Variety: Offer accompaniments like noodles or diced vegetables for those who’d like a heartier soup.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Absorbs the broth beautifully and provides a contrasting texture.
• Salads: A light, citrus-based salad can refresh the palate after the dense stock.
• Steamed Dumplings: Their soft texture pairs wonderfully with the liquid richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized edges and earthy flavors work harmoniously with the stock.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic with soups and stocks.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Prepare Ingredients: Gather mixed bones (chicken, beef, pork) along with aromatics (onions, carrots, celery), herbs, and spices.
• Slow Cooker: Place all ingredients in a slow cooker with water and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
• Strain and Cool: Once cooked, strain the stock to remove solids and allow it to cool to room temperature.
• Portioning: Divide the stock into airtight containers or freezer bags for convenient storage.
• Refrigerate or Freeze: Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Freeze for Later: Pour into ice cube trays for easy-to-use portions, perfect for sautéing vegetables or making sauces.
• Rice & Pasta: Use as a cooking liquid to infuse flavor into grains and noodles.
• Soups & Stews: A ready base that cuts down prep time for future meals.
• Braises: Provides a flavorful liquid for slow-cooking meats or vegetables.
• Gravy: Reduce the stock on the stovetop for a rich, dense gravy.
• Steaming Liquid: Use instead of water to steam vegetables or seafood.

Nutrition Table