Ingredients
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2–3 pounds beef bones (marrow bones, knuckle bones, or oxtail)
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1 large onion, quartered (skin on for color)
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2 carrots, roughly chopped
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3 celery stalks, roughly chopped
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4 garlic cloves, smashed
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2 bay leaves
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1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
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1 bunch parsley stems (reserve leaves for garnish)
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2–3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
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12–16 cups cold water (enough to cover ingredients)
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1–2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
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Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1-inch piece of ginger, or 1 cup mushrooms for extra flavor
Instructions
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Prepare the Bones:
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Rinse the beef bones under cold water to remove any debris.
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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.
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Roast the Bones (Optional but Recommended):
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.
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Simmer the Bouillon:
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Transfer the roasted bones to a large stockpot. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, parsley stems, and thyme.
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Cover with cold water (12-16 cups) and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 4-6 hours. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
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Strain and Store:
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Carefully strain the bouillon through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot. Discard the solids.
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Let the bouillon cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers or jars.
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Optional: Make Bouillon Cubes or Powder:
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Reduce the bouillon by simmering until it’s highly concentrated (about 1/4 of its original volume).
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Pour into ice cube trays and freeze, or dehydrate to make powder.
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Notes
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Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.
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Customization: Add ginger, mushrooms, or tomato paste for unique flavors.
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Salt Adjustment: Add salt gradually, especially if you plan to reduce the bouillon further.
- 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