Bone broth is a nutritious liquid made by simmering bones and connective tissue in water. It extracts gelatin, minerals, and other nutrients from the bones, resulting in a nutrient-dense broth. Many people use bone broth as the base for soups due to its rich flavor and health benefits. Here’s an overview of using bone broth for soup.
Nutritional Benefits of Bone Broth
Bone broth is packed with nutrients that are great for overall health:
- Protein – Bone broth contains collagen, gelatin, and amino acids from the bones and cartilage.
- Minerals – Simmering bones releases minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and more.
- Glycine – This amino acid found in collagen promotes gut and joint health.
- Hyaluronic Acid – Beneficial for skin hydration and joint lubrication.
- Chondroitin Sulfates – These compounds support joint flexibility and health.
The nutritional profile of bone broth makes it an excellent base for soups. It provides a variety of health-boosting compounds compared to water or regular stock.
Making Bone Broth
Making your own bone broth at home is simple. Here are some tips:
- Use bones from beef, chicken, turkey, or fish. Joints and feet have the most collagen.
- Add connective tissue like chicken feet or beef tendons.
- An acidic medium helps extract nutrients, so add vinegar or wine.
- Simmer bones for 12-24 hours to extract maximum nutrients.
- Strain the broth through a sieve to remove solids.
- Let cool and skim off the fat layer before use.
The end result is a tasty, gelatinous bone broth perfect for soup. For convenience, you can also purchase pre-made bone broth.
Soups to Make with Bone Broth
Here are some delicious soup recipes to try with bone broth:
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a classic that’s even better with bone broth. Simmer shredded chicken, vegetables, and noodles in chicken bone broth for a comforting soup.
Beef and Vegetable Soup
Beef bone broth adds rich flavor to this hearty soup. Add chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions for a meal in a bowl.
Miso Soup
For a Japanese-inspired soup, use dashi bone broth with miso paste, tofu, seaweed, and scallions.
Pho
This Vietnamese noodle soup starts with a beef bone broth. Add rice noodles, beef, and fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, and lime.
Minestrone
A mix of beans, pasta, and vegetables come alive in a savory chicken or beef bone broth.
Lentil Soup
Earthy lentils pair nicely with the richness of bone broth. Add carrots, celery, and seasons for flavor.
Broccoli Cheese Soup
For a creamy soup, puree broccoli in bone broth with cheese, onions, and spices.
Tips for Cooking with Bone Broth
- Keep bone broth on hand – Freeze broth in batches for quick soup making.
- Enhance flavor – Browning meats and sautéing aromatics boosts soup flavor.
- Blend it – For a creamy soup, puree some of the solids into the broth.
- Finish with fresh herbs – Cilantro, basil, parsley add freshness.
- Top it off – Garnish soups with items like scallions, avocado, cheese, or croutons.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste and adjust salt, pepper, spices to your liking.
Conclusion
Bone broth makes an incredible base for nourishing, flavorful soups. Simmering bones extracts nutrients like collagen, gelatin, minerals, and more – things lacking from water or stock. Soups made with bone broth are extra comforting, great for cold weather or whenever you need a health boost. From chicken noodle to pho, the possibilities are endless. With a batch of homemade broth, you’re ready to craft delicious, nutrient-dense soups.