Some of the most simple food prep practices prove themselves to be the most rewarding, and a rich, savory bone broth definitely hits our list! When it comes to our health, mindfulness goes a long way, and knowing why we make these choices is so important.
Our friend Hannah Wielemaker inspired us with the bone broth she makes for her family, and shows us just how easy (and delicious) it is!
Even when life feels full and fast, prioritizing what we consume can be really simple. With a few small adjustments, and rhythms added into the week, these practices soon evolve into a lifestyle. And just like Hannah puts it, nutrition is not the thing we want to compromise on amidst our hectic lives!
What are the benefits?
Maybe you’ve already adopted a value for zero food waste, boiling down the leftovers of a roast chicken for soup, or perhaps just enjoy the warmth of stock on a sick day. But there’s a reason we crave chicken noodle soup when we’re under the weather! Bone broth replenishes our bodies like you wouldn’t believe. It’s naturally filled with bioavailable minerals, vitamins and protein, and is a great electrolyte to keep you hydrated throughout the day. Bone marrow itself is super rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamins A + K, fatty acids, selenium (helps maintain thyroid hormones and metabolism), zinc, manganese, and so much more to keep your gut happy.
Breaking a fast? Your digestive system will thank you if you sip away on this salty soup! Even if you aren’t fighting sickness, bone broth is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and amino acids, and can support joint health by reducing the breakdown of cartilage.
Homemade vs store-bought
So why make it at home when you could pick some up on your next grocery run? Well, firstly, it’s good to know that most store bought broths often contain unnecessary additives like MSG or sugar to enhance flavor. Not ideal. Consider organic, pasture-raised bones that are free of toxins and pesticides. Quality is key! Check out your local health food store or butchery for frozen bones, and you’ll find a more affordable rate than simply buying pre-made bone broth. There’s also something beautiful to uncover when we go back to home-cooked rituals. Slowing down to work with our hands, and knowing exactly what goes into the food we eat paves the way for better health—emotionally and physically.
The best part? It’s SO easy to make!
We love this simple step-by-step recipe from Hannah~
“Adapt as you please! My life is so busy these days, I feel like I’m non-stop moving from the moment I wake up until the moment I sleep. Some things I’ve had to compromise on, how tidy my house is? Yup! How nutritious our food is? NOPE! If I can do it, SO CAN YOU! Start with bones!”
The ‘Bare Bones’ (pun intended)
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Beef Bones (We purchase a full cow as a family and have the bones included! You can also find them at farmers markets, butchers, etc! We want them to be quality! Grass fed/ finished = ideal!)
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Filtered Water
- Optional: Garlic, Onion, Carrots, salt + pepper (Add anything you’d like, tbh I was lazy for this batch.)
Process:
- Roast the bones (If frozen: pop them in the oven at 350 for 1.5 hours, you can do longer or shorter, just enough to roast them a bit on the outside.)
- Cover the bones with filtered water and a dash of apple cider vinegar. Add additional veggies if desired. (In the reel you see my bones exposed a bit, that’s because they had been simmering for 24 hours at this point!)
- Let simmer for 24 hours.
- Strain into jars (no more than 3/4 full if freezing.) Allow to fully cool prior to placing in the freezer.
- Remove the fat that settles at the top prior to cooking with it. Use for anything and everything: cook in rice, quinoa, peas, or make stews, shepherd’s pies, chili, etc! Use for baby purées added to their meats, liver, veggies! (Note: not for infants under 6 months)
Looking for the right slow cooker? Here’s a few we like:
Dutch Oven:
Martha Stewart’s 7QT Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven in ‘Martha Blue’ ($80)
Electric Crock-pot:
Crock-pot 7QT Stainless Steel Manual Slow Cooker ($40)
Follow Hannah for more healthy living tips, and the sweetest feed of intentional motherhood! Snacks for moms (and grandmas) to pack for kiddos, recipes, encouragement, and home-life inspo.
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