What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making this bone broth is like crafting a warm, comforting hug in a pot—it’s simple, nourishing, and full of flavor. First, it’s packed with nutrients that support your health, from gut healing to joint care. Second, it’s endlessly versatile; use it as a soup base, cooking liquid, or even a sippable drink. Finally, it’s wallet-friendly, turning kitchen scraps and leftover bones into something truly magical.
Recipe
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and collagen, making it a popular choice for boosting immunity and gut health. This homemade version is simple to prepare and yields a flavorful, nourishing broth perfect for soups, stews, or sipping on its own.
Ingredients
- 2-3 lbs beef bones (marrow bones, knuckle bones, or oxtail)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 bunch fresh parsley
- Water (enough to cover bones)
Instructions
- Roast the bones (optional): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes until browned.
- Simmer the broth: Transfer bones to a large pot. Add vegetables, garlic, vinegar, bay leaf, and peppercorns. Cover with water.
- Cook slowly: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
- Long simmer: Cook for 12-24 hours (the longer, the richer the broth). Add parsley in the last 30 minutes.
- Strain and store: Remove bones and vegetables, then strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve. Let cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Notes
- For gelatinous broth, use joints and knuckle bones.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Skimming fat is optional—some prefer to leave it for added flavor.
Equipment
- Large stockpot or slow cooker
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Storage containers
Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-24 hours
Cuisine
Universal
Serving
Makes about 2 quarts (adjust based on pot size)
Nutrition
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering bones and connective tissues, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
| Iron | 0.5mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade bone broth with hearty soups loaded with grains and beans, or serving it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes. The rich flavor of the broth complements these dishes perfectly, making them feel cozy and filling. It’s a simple way to turn a basic meal into something special.
Hearty Soups
When you’ve got a pot of rich, homemade bone broth simmering, it’s the perfect base for all kinds of hearty soups that’ll warm you up from the inside out. I love tossing in tender chicken, carrots, and noodles for a classic chicken soup, or adding beans, kale, and sausage for a rustic minestrone. If I’m craving something creamy, I’ll blend in potatoes and leeks for a velvety potato soup. The broth’s deep flavor makes every spoonful satisfying, and it’s so easy to customize with whatever’s in my fridge. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic way to complement the rich flavors of homemade bone broth. I love tossing carrots, onions, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and herbs, then roasting them until caramelized. The natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory depth of the broth. Try adding garlic or rosemary for extra aroma—it’s simple but makes all the difference. Serve them on the side or drop them right into your bowl for a heartier meal. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never go back. It’s cozy, nourishing, and downright delicious. Happy roasting!
