How to Make Nourishing Bone Broth

Learn how to make nourishing bone broth to use in soups, stews and many other dishes. Learn about the health benefits of bone broth. And learn why homemade is better than buying prepackaged from the store!

I first learned about bone broth from reading the book Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Dr. Weston A. Price. He conducted research on the diets of primitive cultures around the world. And he found that the healthiest cultures consumed large quantities of bone broth and lacto-fermented foods.

Bone broth is an indispensable ingredient in my traditional foods kitchen. I value bone broth for its many nourishing properties. Additionally I value it as an economical nutrient dense food.

What Are The Health Benefits of Nourishing Bone Broth?

The vitamin and mineral content will vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used. For example, if organ meats or vegetables are added. But generally speaking, bone broth is rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and other trace minerals.

In addition, bone broth is a good source of gelatin. Gelatin has many health benefits. First, it is known to heal the gut lining and assist digestion. Second, it has anti-inflammatory effects. Third, it supports healthy joints, hair, skin and nails.

As well as the above benefits, bone broth helps our body to fight infections. Therefore I drink nourishing bone broth by the cupful whenever I am feeling ill!

What Are The Differences Between Bone Broth, Regular Broth and Stock?

I only learned this recently. Bone broth is actually not broth at all, but stock!

To make stock (aka “bone broth”) you simmer bones, meat and sometimes vegetables in a pot of water for a long period of time (8-24 hours).

To make broth you simmer just meat, or just vegetables, in a pot of water for a shorter period of time.

Why is Homemade Better Than Store-bought?

First, store-bought bone broth is expensive. While homemade bone broth is inexpensive.

Second, store-bought bone broth tends to be shelf stable. That means it has been heat and pressure treated. As a result there are less vitamins and minerals present.

Third, store-bought bone broth is usually clear and liquid. In contrast, a good batch of homemade bone broth is thick and gelatinous. High gelatin content is what makes homemade bone broth especially healing.

How to Make Nourishing Bone Broth

Traditionally bone broth would have been made by slow simmering over the fire or on the stove. I used to make mine on the stove. But it always worried me to leave the burner going unattended. Now I make mine in my InstantPot, which I highly recommend!

I am not typically one for fancy kitchen equipment. Firstly, I have a small kitchen with limited storage. Secondly, I figure if humans got along fine without something for centuries, I probably can too. I bought the InstantPot solely for the purpose of making bone broth. And I am so glad that I did! It makes the best bone broth quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Chicken or Beef Bones

Apple Cider Vinegar

Filtered Water

Optional: Herbs and/or vegetables (I like to add herbs like parsley or sage, as well as carrot and onion with the skins)

Tools

Large Stainless Steel Pot OR InstantPot

Fine Mesh Strainer

Jar Funnel

Large Glass Canning Jar

Process

First, fill the pot about 3/4 of the way full with bones. Add in any herbs and vegetables if using.

Second, pour in filtered water. You want just enough to cover the bones.

Third, add in a splash of apple cider vinegar. The acidity of the vinegar helps to pull nutrients out of the bones.

If making on the stovetop: Place stainless steel pot on the stove and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce to a simmer. Allow to simmer for 12-24 hours.

If making in the InstantPot (what I recommend): Make sure the silicone ring is pressed into the Instant Pot lid. And make sure the knob on the lid is set to “seal”. Then place the lid onto the InstantPot and lock. Set the InstantPot using the “Soup” button, on low pressure, for 240 minutes (4 hours). Once the first cycle is finished, run it again at the same settings (for a total of 8 hours).

After cooking, for either method: Let the broth cool down slightly. Then strain the bones from the broth. To do this I set a fine mesh strainer over a jar funnel (or use a funnel with a built in strainer) and pour the broth directly into a large glass jar.

Store your homemade bone broth in the fridge and use within 5-7 days. Also, you can freeze your bone broth right in the jar for up to six months.

Ways to Use Your Nourishing Bone Broth

I love to use my homemade bone broth in a variety of ways. Firstly I enjoy sipping it hot straight from a mug. Secondly I use it as a base for all of my soups and stews. Thirdly I use it as the cooking liquid when making grains like rice. Lastly I use it to make nourishing gravies and sauces.

If you try this recipe and enjoy it, I would be so grateful if you could come back and give it five stars! And I love to see your pictures of my recipes, so be sure to tag me on Instagram @verityfolkschool.

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