If you’ve ever wondered how to make a nourishing, deeply flavorful bone broth recipe at home, you’re in the right place. Bone broth has become a staple for health enthusiasts, chefs, and anyone looking to boost immunity or improve gut health. This ancient, slow-cooked liquid gold is rich in collagen, minerals, and amino acids that support your joints, digestion, and skin. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — enjoy it warm on its own or as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. Let’s get started with this simple, time-tested bone broth recipe.
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs beef bones (marrow bones, knuckles, oxtail, or a mix)
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 10–12 cups filtered water
- Optional: fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast the bones (optional but recommended):
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange bones on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until browned. This adds depth of flavor. - Prepare the broth base:
Transfer the roasted bones to a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and apple cider vinegar. - Add water and seasonings:
Pour in filtered water until the bones are fully covered. Add salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. - Simmer slowly:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Simmer uncovered for:- Stovetop: 12–24 hours
- Slow cooker: 18–24 hours
- Pressure cooker (Instant Pot): 3 hours
- Skim and monitor:
Occasionally skim off foam or impurities that rise to the top. - Strain and cool:
Once cooked, remove bones and strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl. - Store:
Cool completely, then refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Tips & Variations
- Add flavor: Roast your bones and vegetables for a richer taste.
- Use different bones: Try chicken, turkey, or pork bones for variety.
- Add aromatics: Ginger and lemongrass give an Asian twist; bay leaves and thyme offer a classic flavor.
- Gelatin-rich broth: Use joints or knuckles for a thicker, collagen-rich broth.
- Instant Pot shortcut: Save time with a pressure cooker—same nutrients, less waiting!
Serving Suggestions
- Sip it warm: Add a pinch of sea salt and drink it as a healing tonic.
- Base for soups: Perfect for ramen, chicken noodle, or vegetable soups.
- Cooking liquid: Use instead of water when making grains or risotto.
- Sauce enhancer: Add depth to gravies, stews, and pan sauces.
FAQs
1. Can I reuse the bones for a second batch?
Yes! You can reuse bones once for a lighter broth. Add fresh vegetables and water for the second simmer.
2. Why add apple cider vinegar?
Vinegar helps break down the bones and release essential minerals and collagen into the broth.
3. How do I know when it’s done?
When the broth is rich in color, smells savory, and the bones appear soft, it’s ready.
4. Is bone broth good for you?
Absolutely! It’s high in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support joint health, digestion, and immunity.
Conclusion
This bone broth recipe is simple, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re sipping it for wellness or using it as a culinary base, homemade bone broth offers unmatched flavor and health benefits. Make a big batch, freeze it, and enjoy the comfort of homemade nourishment anytime.
