From Feast to Homemade Bone Broth: Crafting Nutrient-Rich Bone Broth from Thanksgiving Leftovers
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to discuss a truly nourishing tradition that begins right after the feast – transforming the turkey carcass into a homemade bone broth. Sounds gross but it makes the most flavorful broth and is an extremely easy process if you can stomach the cleaning of the bones. Not my favorite part of the process but I find comfort knowing I am using what food I have rather than purchasing stock at the store.
A Personal Journey with Bone Broth
While pregnant, I faced the challenge of severe nausea, making it difficult to maintain a healthy weight. Homemade Bone broth became my savior, a soothing elixir rich in nutrients that was gentle on my stomach and comforting to my soul. Knowing exactly what went into my food was paramount, especially with a gluten allergy. My choice to use only the larger bones for the broth was deliberate, ensuring a gluten-free and nutrient-dense foundation for my meals.
The Simplicity of Wholesome Ingredients
In my kitchen, the journey of broth-making begins with quality: a turkey carcass (specifically, the larger bones), fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The already put together herb packets, usually placed by the turkey’s around Thanksgiving and Christmas are the quickest solution.
These simple, whole ingredients come together to create something that’s not only beneficial for health but also forms the perfect base for the ultimate comfort food – homemade chicken noodle soup.
The Art of Making Homemade Bone Broth:
A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Bones: After enjoying the Thanksgiving turkey, I set aside the larger bones, rinsing them to remove any debris, I throw them into the roaster before adding all of my vegetables and seasoning.
Gathering the Ensemble: Into my trusty roaster, I introduce onions, carrots, celery, and a any fresh herbs I have lying around.
The Alchemy Begins: Covered with water and a touch of apple cider vinegar, the concoction is slowly brought to a simmer, and walk away! I usually let my bone broth sit for at least 8 hours in the roaster.
The Finale: With the homemade bone broth strained and the solids composted (skim the fat from the top of the broth) you can buy a pretty cheap broth seperator which makes this process super quick and easy, what is left is a golden elixir, a testament to the simplicity and nourishment that nature provides.
Storing your Homemade Bone Broth: There are 3 popular methods. I typically use large tuperware containers but here are some other popular methods for storing your homemade bone broth.
Ice cube trays: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve. Pour the broth into ice cube trays, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top. Freeze the broth, then remove the cubes and store them in freezer-proof containers.
Gallon Ziplock Bags: Freeze the broth in small or large quantities in freezer bags. You can line up the bags in your freezer for easy access.
Containers: Pour the broth into BPA-free bags, glass jars, or BPA-free plastic or glass containers. Leave about 1 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
Tips and Tweaks for Perfection
- For those who prefer a bolder taste, combine chicken and turkey bones.
- Introduce roasted vegetables for a deeper flavor profile.
- Don’t hesitate to play with herbs and spices; rosemary and peppercorns can work wonders.
Beyond Broth: Culinary Adventures Await
This homemade broth isn’t just a health tonic; it’s the secret ingredient to the best chicken noodle soup you’ll ever taste. It’s a recipe that makes Panera’s rendition pale in comparison, and I’m excited to share it with you. Click here for my super simple, super delicious chicken noodle soup recipe.
Embrace the Tradition
Making bone broth is more than a post-Thanksgiving ritual; it’s a way to ensure that nothing goes to waste, to know precisely where your food comes from, and to provide your body with the nutrients it craves. So this year, as you gather and give thanks, consider setting aside that turkey carcass. With a little time and love, it can give back in ways you never expected.
