Bone broth has received its newfound fame. Chefs around the world and private chefs are seen preparing batches of bone broth as a meal prep for various recipes.
The concoction is becoming a celebrity favourite and mentioned in health-woke circles.
Besides this resurgence, bone broth has always been an integral part of many Asian countries. Many Asian cultures have used bone broth to fix various ailments and seasonal bouts and improve gut health.
Many of us have heard tales of grandmothers cooking broth for the kids down with the flu. For its various health benefits, new mothers are given bone broth for the first couple of weeks to replenish their overall health post-childbirth.
If you are contemplating making this slow-cooked broth, here is why you should jump on the trend and make one.
What is Bone Broth?
It is a slow-cooked concoction made with the bones and joints of animals. You can make broth using bones from chicken, veal, turkey, buffalo, beef, bison, or fish.
Connective tissues and marrow parts like hooves, feet, fins, gizzard, and neck are also used. The broth is made by tossing the bones into a large pot and filling it with water, some cider vinegar, or lemon.
Often, seasoning and aromatics are added for many health benefits. Moreover, you can add your choice of vegetables, such as onions, lemon, basil, celery, parsley, mint leaves, and thyme.
When slow-cooked for at least six hours to two days, the liquid is nothing less than Liquid Gold.
Nutrients Packed in Every Cup of Bone Broth
Unlike stock, bone broth is slow-cooked for many hours. Sometimes to get the best out of bones and joints, it is cooked for 10 or 48 hours on low heat.
The long hours of simmering release a wealth of compounds which are cooked with various vegetables.
Here is what you get in each bowl of bone broth:
- Collagen: The compound is known for its benefits for the skin and joint health. Collagen reinvigorates the skin, improving skin elasticity, and joint health with an abundance of protein.
- Gelatin: This compound is derived from Collagen. It is often used in conjunction with gut health, improving gut lining and aiding digestion.
- Minerals: Packed with Calcium, Magnesium, and Phosphorus – each cup helps boost bone and muscle health, improving many bodily functions.
- Amino Acids: These are some rare finds, yet very easy to get from a cup of bone broth. With compounds like Proline, Glutamine, and Glycine, you are in for better immune and muscle health and improved sleep quality.
Various Benefits of Bone Broth
- For Immune Fix: The immune system instantly goes into healing mode due to the rich presence of collagen, gelatin, amino acids, and other minerals. Add some herbs and vegetables like lemon, star anise, bay leaf, peppercorns, carrot, and onions to the pot for immune-packed broth.
- For Joint Health: Vitamin C and Collagen are known for their impact on joint, tendon, and tissue repair. The collagen-packed liquid gold is often prescribed to sportsmen and patients suffering from arthritis.
- For Skin: As seen in various beauty product commercials, we now know collagen is an important element for skin elasticity. The compound depletes with time, sun exposure, and bad health. Instead of taking collagen supplements, one can switch to this healthier alternative. Add some aromatics and vegetables for skin health.
- For Gut: Collagen is key for gut health. As it binds with water, it improves gut lining and aids digestion.
How to Incorporate Bone Broth into Your Diet?
There are many ways you can use bone broth:
- In many cultures, bone broth is sipped as a standalone drink. Heat some broth, add some seasoning, and pour into a mug for a steaming cup of golden liquid.
- Use the broth as a base for soups and stews. Add some seasoning to enrich the flavour profile.
- You can use some broth in rice, quinoa, meat, and vegetable recipes to add depth to the recipe.
Takeaway
Bone broth may be a culinary trend right now, but the nutrients and benefits will make you a convert forever.
If you are looking for an immune boost, gut health, and joints or need something light and filling – bone broth checks all the boxes. The golden liquid is very filling and helps you get a fix of meal without loading on extra calories.
