Making Your Own Bone Broth 101
There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of soup during winter. Its ability to warm up your body from the inside out makes for a cozy, comfy day inside. What better way to enjoy soup than with homemade bone broth? Not only is it nutritious, but it’s also incredibly flavorful, versatile and easy.
WHAT IS BONE BROTH & WHY SHOULD I MAKE IT?
Though technically, “broth” is the liquid product of boiling meat and not bones, “bone broth” is the process of boiling animal bones with spices and vegetables. The amazing part about bone broth is its collagen content. Typically, you make bone broth with knuckles, joints, feet and marrow bones, all of which are rich in collagen. Namely, collagen is an essential protein found in your organs, muscles, skin, hair, nails, teeth, bones, blood vessels, tendons, joints, cartilage, and digestive system. Phew! Is it any wonder why upping your collagen intake is a good thing?
There are 16 different types of collagen in your body, but the majority is “type 1.” And this type of collagen is literally stronger than steel, gram for gram! But collagen in general can increase joint health, improve hair, skin and nails, support liver function, maintain a healthy gut and much more.
Collagen is a significant reason you should be adding bone broth to your meals, but it’s not the only reason. Bone broth also contains glycine and arginine (from the bones) that have anti-inflammatory properties. That protects your body against heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, arthritis and some types of cancer. In addition, it aids digestion thanks to its gelatin content. Gelatin binds to the water already in your digestive tract which helps guide food through your system with ease.
THE RECIPE
Luckily, it’s not too hard to make your own bone broth, but you do need some time for preparation. First, you’ll need to locate a few tools like two stockpots, roasting pans and a wire mesh strainer or sieve. Next, acquire your broth-makin’ bones. If you’re unsure, confide in your local butcher and they’ll point you in the right direction. Here’s one recipe for a beef broth we found to be pretty reliable. You can customize it to your flavor likings and make it your own! Here’s a sneak peak of what you’ll need:
- Beef bones
- Water (make sure it’s Primo!)
- Carrots
- Onions
- Celery
- Garlic
- Bay leaves
- Whole black peppercorns
- Whole star anise
- Cinnamon sticks
- Apple cider vinegar
WHY PRIMO?
Bone broth offers some incredible health benefits, so don’t negate them by using tap water. Tap water can often carry toxic chemicals and heavy metals that wreak havoc on your body. And contrary to popular belief, boiling won’t make it any better! While it can kill bacteria and viruses, it won’t diminish cancer-causing chemicals or lead.
So, it’s best to use purified water to make your bone broth. Primo® Water undergoes a 5-step Reverse Osmosis (RO) purification process to eliminate harmful microorganisms, heavy metals, trace pharmaceuticals and more! That leaves you with better, safer water for drinking…and making better bone broth. Find Primo near you and get started today!