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Crock Pot Bone Broth

Bone broth has taken the health world by storm in recent years, and for good reason. Packed with essential nutrients and health benefits, it’s no surprise that this comforting, flavorful liquid is being heralded as a superfood. And, yet you know what?  It is so simple.  All you need is a whole chicken--just the leftover bones, really--my favorite is using my leftover rotisserie chicken! 
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 hours
Total Time 15 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2-3 lbs bones (beef marrow bones, chicken carcass, turkey bones, or a mix of both)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals from the bones)
  • 1 onion, peeled and quartered
  • 2 carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed (optional, but adds great flavor)
  • 2-3 bay leaves
  • A few sprigs of fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary work well)
  • 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
  • Water (enough to cover the bones and vegetables, about 10 cups)

Equipment

  • Crock Pot

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Bones: If you’re using beef bones, it’s helpful to roast them first to develop a richer flavor. Simply place the bones on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until they’re browned. (This step is optional of course, but it adds depth to the flavor of your broth, so if you have the time, don't skip it!)
  2. Add to the Crock Pot: Place your bones in the Crock Pot, along with the vinegar, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, a bay leaf or two, peppercorns, and herbs.
  3. Cover with Water: Add enough water to the slow cooker to cover the bones and vegetables, about 10 cups, depending on the size of your Crock Pot.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Set your Crock Pot to the "low" setting and let it cook for 12-24 hours. The longer it cooks, the richer and more nutrient-dense the broth will become. If you have time, cooking it for a full 24 hours will give you a deeply flavorful and nourishing broth. That extended period of time is so beneficial so if you accidentally forget it, not to worry!
  5. Skim the Broth: During the first few hours of cooking, you may notice some foam or scum rise to the top of the broth. Use a spoon to skim it off if you prefer a clearer broth. This is totally optional.
  6. Strain the Broth: After the cooking time is up, use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the bones and vegetables from the Crock Pot. Then, strain the broth through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any remaining solids.
  7. Store and Enjoy: Let the flavorful broth cool to room temperature, then transfer it to mason jars or airtight containers. Store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for later use. You can sip on it as is or again, use it as a base for soups, stews, or sauces of your choice!

Notes

Tips for Success:
  • Use a Variety of Bones: For the most nutrient-dense broth, use a mix of bones. Beef marrow bones provide a rich, deep flavor, while chicken or turkey bones are great for a lighter, more delicate broth.
  • Add More Vinegar: If your broth doesn’t seem as rich or gelatinous as you’d like, try adding a little more apple cider vinegar to help extract more nutrients from the bones.
  • Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. You can add things like ginger, turmeric, or even a dash of soy sauce for a unique twist.
  • Don’t Rush the Process: Bone broth benefits from long, slow cooking. It’s worth the wait, so try to resist the temptation to speed up the process with higher heat. A slow cook will yield the best results!