How to Prepare Bone Broth to Drink: A Nutritious and Healing Beverage
Bone broth has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous health benefits. This flavorful and nutritious beverage is made by simmering bones, vegetables, and herbs for an extended period. Not only is it delicious, but it also provides a variety of nutrients, including collagen, amino acids, and minerals. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing bone broth to drink, ensuring that you can enjoy its benefits at home.
Ingredients
To prepare bone broth, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 pounds of bones (beef, chicken, or turkey)
– 1 onion, quartered
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sea salt
– 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
– 4-6 garlic cloves, peeled
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
– Fresh or dried parsley
– Optional: bay leaf, peppermint, or any other herbs you prefer
Instructions
1. Begin by placing the bones in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, let the water simmer for about 10 minutes. This process helps to remove any impurities from the bones.
2. After simmering for 10 minutes, remove the pot from heat and strain the bones from the water. Discard the water and rinse the bones under cold water.
3. In the same pot, add fresh water to cover the bones. Add the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Pour in the apple cider vinegar, which helps to draw out the nutrients from the bones.
4. Add the sea salt, black peppercorns, garlic cloves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and parsley. If desired, add any additional herbs like bay leaf or peppermint.
5. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for at least 12 hours. The longer you cook the broth, the more nutrients it will contain. You can simmer it for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor and nutrient extraction.
6. Once the broth has finished simmering, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining bones, vegetables, and herbs. Discard the solids and pour the broth into a clean container.
7. Allow the broth to cool slightly before refrigerating. Once chilled, the broth will separate into layers. Skim off any fat that rises to the top and discard it. This step is optional but can help improve the taste and texture of the broth.
8. Store the bone broth in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage. When ready to drink, simply heat the broth in a saucepan or microwave.
Enjoying Your Bone Broth
Bone broth can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for soups, stews, or sauces. It is also a great addition to smoothies or as a soothing drink for colds and flu. Remember that the flavor of bone broth can vary depending on the type of bones used and the length of cooking time. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.
In conclusion, preparing bone broth to drink is a simple and rewarding process that offers numerous health benefits. By following these steps, you can create a delicious and nutritious beverage that will keep you feeling healthy and energized.
