Bone broth has long been revered as a nourishing tonic for the body, known for its benefits to joints, bones, skin, hair, and gut health. Curious about its restorative powers, I decided to try my hand at making this ages-old elixir, blending techniques from various sources, including an adaptation from Nourishing Traditions and wisdom from a Korean master teacher. After some trial and error, I’m excited to share my foolproof method with you.
Preparation:
My journey begins at the local farmers’ market, where I purchase beef bones directly from a local rancher. I prefer pasture-raised, grass-fed cows for their omega-3-rich meats and humane upbringing. Typically, I buy 2 pounds of bones and a gelatin-producing knuckle to create 4 quarts of broth.
Recipe:
- Roast the Bones: Start by roasting the bones on a tray at 400°F for 40 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also makes the bones more porous, allowing nutrients to infuse into the broth. If your bones aren’t pre-cut, roasting helps them crack open, exposing the buttery, nutritious marrow inside. I encourage you to taste the marrow—it’s delicious and packed with benefits.
- Prepare the Broth: Using tongs, transfer the roasted bones into a soup kettle or crock pot filled with 4 quarts of cold water. Add chopped carrots, onions, and celery for flavor. Don’t forget ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar to extract the marrow, minerals, and silica. For an extra boost, grate in fresh turmeric or ginger.
- Simmer and Strain: Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce to a slow simmer for 18-24 hours. Afterward, skim off the top layer of fat, and remove the bones and overcooked veggies.
What you’ll have is a nutrient-rich, savory broth that can be enjoyed on its own as a medicinal tonic or used as a base for other recipes. This elixir is a true celebration of wellness—nourishing from the inside out.
Warmly,
Melodia xo
More Bone Broth…
For more fun reading about why bone broth is the bomb, check out this link from Underground Wellness. For you visual learners check out this awesome video.
