Unlock the Power of Homemade Bone Broth
Do you want a one cup wonder? Here it is, welcome to the nourishing world of homemade bone broth, a timeless remedy that has found its place in the modern health and wellness landscape. This nutrient-rich liquid, steeped in tradition and simplicity, is more than just a base for soups and stews; it’s a powerhouse of health benefits waiting to enrich your daily diet.
We hear so much about bone broth today, but, what is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is made by simmering bones, typically from chicken, beef, or fish, along with vegetables, herbs, and spices in water. This slow cooking process extracts a wealth of nutrients from the bones, including collagen, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins.
The health benefits are amazing, the collagen and amino acids in bone broth help heal and seal the gut lining, promoting better digestion and absorption of nutrients. Rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, bone broth supports joint health and mobility. The high collagen content aids in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing visible signs of aging. Bone broth is a natural immune system enhancer, thanks to its high mineral content and ability to promote gut health.
It’s an excellent source of hydration and provides essential electrolytes, making it perfect for post-exercise recovery.
Homemade bone broth is a simple yet profound addition to your health regimen. Its benefits are numerous, and its preparation, a meditative culinary experience. Embrace this ancient practice and watch as it transforms your health, one sip at a time.
- Author: Kim Nicholson
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-4 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 24 ounces 1x
Ingredients
Chicken bones (carcass from a roasted chicken works well)
2 carrots, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, smashed
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Herbs of choice (parsley, thyme, bay leaf)
Salt and pepper to taste
Water
Instructions
Place chicken bones in a large pot and cover with water. Add apple cider vinegar and let sit for 30 minutes to help extract nutrients from the bones.
Add the vegetables, garlic, and herbs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Simmer for 2-4 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the top.
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Enjoy a warm cup of bone broth as a soothing drink, use it as a base for soups and stews, or add it to rice and pasta dishes for extra nutrition.
The nutritional breakdown of homemade chicken broth can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the cooking method. However, a general estimate for the nutritional content of homemade chicken broth per cup (approximately 240 ml) is as follows:
Calories: 40-50 kcal
Protein: 4-6 grams
Fat: 1-2 grams (varies depending on the amount of fat in the chicken bones and whether the fat is skimmed off)
Carbohydrates: 0-2 grams (mostly from any vegetables used in the broth)
Fiber: 0 grams (as any fiber from vegetables is typically removed in the straining process)
Sodium: This can vary significantly based on whether salt is added and the amount used. Homemade broth can be lower in sodium compared to store-bought varieties, especially if no or little salt is added.
Vitamins and Minerals: The broth can contain small amounts of minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, sourced from the bones and vegetables. The amounts can vary based on cooking time and the specific ingredients used.
It’s important to note that the longer the bones and vegetables are simmered, the more nutrients will be extracted into the broth, potentially increasing its mineral content. The exact nutritional values can be hard to pinpoint precisely due to the variations in cooking methods and ingredients.