Bone Broth with Leftover Chicken bones
The truth is, you don’t need to follow a recipe. Add whatever vegetables, spices or herbs you like. I normally add onion and sometimes I add veggie scraps/ juice pulp from the juicer. This is a super lazy version with minimal effort.
I made a small batch because I just wanted to use the leftover bones I had from cooking, but you can double or triple this if you want to stock up and freeze.
I like to use enough water to just about cover the bones. This way the bone broth becomes a lot more concentrated which means it takes up less space in the fridge/ freezer. This is particularly helpful when you make a large batch of broth.
When it comes to consuming it, I add about 1 teaspoon - 1 tablespoon to water to sip on, or adding it to whatever I’m cooking e.g. sauces, soup, rice, pasta, ramen.. endless possibilities.
Bone Broth Benefits:
Boosts Collagen Production
Consuming 300ml of bone broth increases plasma levels of glycine and proline, essential amino acids for collagen formation.
Enhanced collagen supports skin elasticity, reduces signs of aging, and promotes a youthful appearance.
Supports Healthy Digestion
Bone broth is easy to digest, making its nutrients readily absorbable, especially beneficial for those with digestive issues.
The gelatine in bone broth helps heal the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting overall digestive health.
Maintains Immune System Health
High in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, bone broth provides essential nutrients for a strong immune system.
Nutrients like zinc and selenium in bone broth are known for their immune-boosting properties.
Improves Joint Pain and Stiffness
Contains glucosamine and chondroitin, known for reducing arthritis symptoms and improving joint health.
High collagen content helps maintain cartilage integrity, easing joint pain and stiffness.
Supports Healthy Sleep
Glycine in bone broth promotes relaxation and enhances sleep quality.
Regular consumption helps achieve better, more restful sleep, improving overall well-being.
Also:
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients like bones, vinegar, water, and a pot are all you need to make bone broth at home.
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, B2, B12, E, omega-3s, and omega-6s.
Sustainable and Economical: Making bone broth uses ingredients that are typically wasted, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle
ingredients
6 large organic drumstick bones (roasted is best)
Chicken skin (optional)
Lemon halves (leftover from roasting)
6 cloves garlic with peel
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Filtered water to cover
method
Start by gathering 6 large drumstick bones (roasted is best), chicken skin, lemon halves leftover from roasting, and 6 garlic cloves. Place these ingredients in a pot or saucepan.
Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Fill the pot with filtered water until the ingredients are generously (or just) covered. Approximately 6-8 cups.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer and cover with a lid. Let it cook for at least 12 hours, or until it reduces by one-half, The longer it cooks, the more intense the flavour and higher the collagen content. I usually aim for 24 hours.
Once done, strain the broth and it's ready to use or store. Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
depending on how much water you add, this yields about 200ml concentrated broth
You can purchase bones from your local butcher specifically for broth, I recommend roasting them to bring out the flavour before simmering.