The Art of Making Nourishing and Healing Bone Broth

Bone broth has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, valued for its nourishing and healing properties. It is rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Whether you prefer to make it on the stovetop or in a crockpot, bone broth is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a base for soups or to cook other foods. In this article, we will explore the process of making bone broth using locally raised grass-fed beef, wild-caught venison, free-range chicken, or any other bone of your choice.

Choosing the Right Bones

The first step in making bone broth is selecting the right bones. Look for bones from animals that have been raised in a healthy and sustainable manner. Locally raised grass-fed beef, wild-caught venison, and free-range chicken are excellent choices. These animals are typically fed a natural diet and are not exposed to antibiotics or hormones, which can affect the quality of the broth.

Preparing the Bones

Before you start making the broth, it is important to prepare the bones properly. If you are using raw bones, you can roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the broth. Once the bones are roasted, transfer them to a large stockpot or crockpot. I normally skip the step of roasting them.

Adding Flavorful Ingredients

To enhance the flavor of your bone broth, add onions, garlic, and herbs to the pot. These aromatic ingredients will infuse the broth with a delightful taste and aroma. You can use a variety of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, or parsley. Additionally, adding a splash of raw apple cider vinegar helps to extract the minerals from the bones. I add a touch of salt, pepper, and turmeric as well.

The Stovetop Method

If you prefer to make bone broth on the stovetop, follow these simple steps:

1. Place the bones, onions, garlic, herbs, and apple cider vinegar in a large stockpot.

2. Add enough water to cover the bones and bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for at least 12 hours, but preferably up to 24 hours. This slow cooking process allows the bones to release their nutrients and flavors into the broth.

4. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface during the simmering process.

5. Once the broth is ready, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.

6. Ladle into jars while hot if canning. Allow the broth to cool before storing it in the refrigerator/freezer.

The Crockpot Method

If you prefer a hands-off approach, making bone broth in a crockpot is a convenient option. This is my preferred method. Here's how you can do it:

1. Place the bones, onions, garlic, herbs, and apple cider vinegar in a crockpot.

2. Add enough water to cover the bones and set the crockpot to low heat.

3. Let the broth cook for 24 to 48 hours, depending on your preference. The longer the cooking time, the richer and more flavorful the broth will be.

4. Similar to the stovetop method, skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.

5. Once the broth is done, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

6. Ladle into jars while hot if canning. Allow the broth to cool before storing it in the refrigerator/freezer.

The Pressure Cooker Method

If you prefer a short cook approach, making bone broth in a pressure cooker is a good option option. I tried this method for the first time today. Here's how you can do it:

1. Place the bones, onions, garlic, herbs, and apple cider vinegar in a pressure cooker.

2. Add enough water to cover the bones and set the cooker to moderate heat.

3. Allow the cooker to reach pressure. Let the broth cook for 3-4 hours, depending on your preference. The longer the cooking time, the richer and more flavorful the broth will be.

4. Similar to the stovetop method, skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.

5. Once the broth is done, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

6. Ladle into jars while hot if canning. Allow the broth to cool before storing it in the refrigerator/freezer.

Using Bone Broth

Bone broth can be enjoyed on its own as a nourishing and comforting drink. It can also be used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, adding depth of flavor and richness to your dishes. Additionally, you can use bone broth to cook grains, legumes, and vegetables, infusing them with its nutritional benefits.

When using bone broth in recipes, you can replace water or store-bought broth with an equal amount of homemade bone broth. This substitution not only enhances the taste but also adds a nutritional boost to your meals.

Conclusion

Making bone broth is a simple yet rewarding process that allows you to create a nourishing and healing elixir in your own kitchen. Whether you choose to make it on the stovetop or in a crockpot, using locally raised grass-fed beef, wild-caught venison, free-range chicken, or any other bone of your choice ensures the highest quality broth. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined in this article, and enjoy the many benefits of homemade bone broth.