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A steaming bowl of vegetable soup made with rich homemade beef bouillon.

The Ultimate Guide to Making Homemade Beef Bouillon from Scratch

Learn how to make homemade beef bouillon from scratch with this ultimate guide! Discover step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and creative ways to use bouillon in soups, sauces, and more. Perfect for elevating your cooking game!

  • Total Time: 6:30
  • Yield: About 8 cups 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 pounds beef bones (marrow bones, knuckle bones, or oxtail)

  • 1 large onion, quartered (skin on for color)

  • 2 carrots, roughly chopped

  • 3 celery stalks, roughly chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

  • 1 bunch parsley stems (reserve leaves for garnish)

  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

  • 1216 cups cold water (enough to cover ingredients)

  • 12 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)

  • Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1-inch piece of ginger, or 1 cup mushrooms for extra flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bones:

    • Rinse the beef bones under cold water to remove any debris.

    • Optional: Blanch the bones by boiling them in water for 5-10 minutes, then drain and rinse again. This step removes impurities for a clearer broth.

  2. Roast the Bones (Optional but Recommended):

    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Place the bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.

  3. Simmer the Bouillon:

    • Transfer the roasted bones to a large stockpot. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, parsley stems, and thyme.

    • Cover with cold water (12-16 cups) and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

    • Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 4-6 hours. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

  4. Strain and Store:

    • Carefully strain the bouillon through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot. Discard the solids.

    • Let the bouillon cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers or jars.

  5. Optional: Make Bouillon Cubes or Powder:

    • Reduce the bouillon by simmering until it’s highly concentrated (about 1/4 of its original volume).

    • Pour into ice cube trays and freeze, or dehydrate to make powder.

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

  • Customization: Add ginger, mushrooms, or tomato paste for unique flavors.

  • Salt Adjustment: Add salt gradually, especially if you plan to reduce the bouillon further.

  • Author: Cato
  • Prep Time: 30
  • Cook Time: 6
  • Category: Broth/Stock
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Universal

Nutrition

  • Calories: 25-30 kcal
  • Sodium: 300-500mg
  • Fat: 1-2g
  • Carbohydrates: 2-3g
  • Protein: 2-3g