The Healthy Kitchen: Bone Broth

 One day I was cooking and pulled out the chicken broth I needed. I noticed the broth looked just like water and really didn't have great flavor. So, I decided to try bone broth and I am never going back. Bone broth is not only nutritious, but it is loaded with flavor. 

Bone broth is made by boiling animal bones and connective tissues, and it believed that bone broth has been used back to prehistoric times. It is by no means new, but it is having a resurgence in popularity.

Bone broth helps improve digestion by naturally improving the lining of the stomach which also helps you get the nutrients from your food. 

Bone broth helps the immune system. It is considered a superfood due to the amount of minerals that help develop and support the immune system. Next time you feel under the weather make your chicken soup with bone broth for some added immune system support. 

Bone broth is an excellent source of calcium that can help with strong bones. It also includes magnesium and phosphorus which help aid in bone health. It is also a lactose free option to get your calcium if you are not able to have lactose. 

Bone broth is a great way to fight fatigue and increase your energy levels due to its high levels of glycine. It can help increase sleep quality and fight fatigue.

Bone broth provides amino acids like Proline, which is important in the production of collagen.

Bone broth contains arginine which is important in balancing kidney function. 

Bone broth can help with weight loss. This is due to its high protein levels up to 10mg per serving. This protein helps you stay fuller longer, and helps create lean muscle, and allows you to burn more calories. 

How to make bone broth at home

Fill a large pot with 1 gallon of water.

Add 2 TBSP apple cider vinegar.

Add 2-4 lbs. of animal bones and connective tissue.

Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 12-24 hours.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Cool and strain it into a large container, discarding the solids. 

The longer is simmers the more flavorful the broth will be.

Add flavor with ingredients like carrots, onions, celery, thyme, rosemary, etc.

This can also be prepared in a pressure cooker or slow cooker. 

How to use bone broth?

Use as a base for sauces, soups, and gravies.

Drink on its own.

Boil pasta in bone broth to add flavor.

Use instead of water in cooking rice or quinoa.

Add to casseroles.

Some of my favorite ways to use bone broth is as a base for soups, I also like to make my rice with it. I also use it in any recipe that calls for broth. I personally have never made it myself, but I have found chicken bone broth at most stores. Sometimes beef you have to look a bit for. Bone broth will also cost you more at the store but in my opinion it is so worth the extra costs. The taste and the extra flavor more than make up for it.