Bone Broth: What Is It, and 5 Reasons You Should Be Using It

Bone broth: what is it and what’s all the fuss about? You might have heard whispers about this elixir of health and flavor, but no one’s ever explained why it’s different or better than regular broth. Today, we’re finally diving in. Buckle up your taste buds, because we’re about to embark on a savory journey that will leave you craving more!

So, What’s the Deal with Bone Broth?

First things first, bone broth is not just your ordinary soup base. It’s a liquid gold packed with nutrients, extracted from simmering animal bones, herbs, and vegetables for an extended period. Unlike regular broth or stock, which often takes a shorter time to cook, bone broth undergoes a slow and patient cooking process, typically lasting anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. This prolonged simmering time allows the bones to release their rich collagen, minerals, and other beneficial compounds into the broth, resulting in a flavorful and nutrient-dense concoction.

While you can buy bone broth at the store, homemade is so much better. But why go through all this trouble when you can simply pick up a carton of store-bought broth? Well, here’s the thing: while commercial broths may suffice in a pinch, they often lack the depth of flavor and nutritional goodness that homemade bone broth offers. Plus, they’re often loaded with additives, preservatives, and sodium levels that could rival the Dead Sea!

The Benefits of Bone Broth: More Than Just a Soup Base

Now, let’s talk about the real star of the show: the benefits of bone broth. Trust us when we say that this liquid marvel is more than just a delicious addition to your favorite recipes – it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that can do wonders for your health and well-being.

• Supports Gut Health: Remember all that collagen we mentioned earlier? Well, it turns out that collagen is not only great for giving your broth that silky-smooth texture but also for supporting gut health. The amino acids derived from collagen help to repair and maintain the lining of the gut, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
• Joint Support: If you’ve ever suffered from achy joints or creaky knees, bone broth might just become your new best friend. The gelatin and other compounds found in bone broth are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation, keeping you limber and agile.
• Boosts Immunity: When flu season comes knocking, a steaming cup of bone broth might be just what the doctor ordered. Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, as well as amino acids such as glutamine, bone broth can help strengthen the immune system and ward off pesky viruses and infections.
• Promotes Healthy Skin: Move over, expensive skincare products – there’s a new player in town! The collagen and gelatin found in bone broth can work wonders for your skin, promoting elasticity, hydration, and a healthy glow from within. Say hello to that coveted “lit-from-within” radiance!
• Supports Bone Health: It’s not called “bone” broth for nothing! Thanks to its high calcium and magnesium content, bone broth can help keep your bones strong and resilient, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions as you age.

How to Make Your Own Bone Broth: A Kitchen Adventure

Now that you’re thoroughly convinced of the magical properties of bone broth, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and try your hand at making your own! Don’t worry, making your own bone broth is easier than you might think, and the rewards are well worth the effort.

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• Carcass of rotisserie chicken – meat removed
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves of garlic, smashed
• 2 bay leaves
• A handful of fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, rosemary)
• Water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place chicken carcass in a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and fresh herbs to the pot.
2. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the bones and vegetables by a few inches. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for at least 12 hours (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor and nutrients). Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking.
4. Once the broth is done simmering, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the solids.
5. Store the bone broth in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for longer-term storage. Use it as a base for soups, stews, sauces, or simply sip it straight from a mug for a nourishing and comforting treat.

And there you have it – your very own batch of homemade bone broth, ready to elevate your culinary creations and nourish your body from the inside out.

Don’t just take our word for it! Instead of tossing your rotisserie chicken carcass in the trash, throw it in your crock pot with the sad carrots and celery that were forgotten about in the drawers of your fridge and try it out! We can’t it to hear what you think.

Hop on over to our Facebook page to continue the discussion about bone broth. Have you noticed it popping up on shelves more these days?

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