If you’ve ever craved a warm, nourishing sip that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Beef Bone Broth Recipe. It’s perfectly simple yet packed with deep, rich flavors and that amazing collagen goodness everyone talks about. Whether you enjoy it straight from the mug or use it as a soulful base for your favorite soups and stews, this broth is a game changer for your kitchen and your wellbeing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly wonderful about this Beef Bone Broth Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a vital role — from adding savory depth to brightening the broth with fresh, wholesome flavors.
- 2 lbs beef bones (marrow or knuckle): These are the heart of your broth, packed with collagen and flavor that gives your broth its signature richness.
- 1 onion, quartered: Adds a naturally sweet, aromatic base to enhance the broth’s complexity.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and beautiful golden color to your broth.
- 2 celery stalks: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the earthiness of the bones.
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Essential for gently breaking down the bones to extract maximum minerals and nutrients.
- 12 cups water: The purest foundation that draws out all the amazing flavors into a soul-soothing liquid.
How to Make Beef Bone Broth Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Bones
Start by roasting your beef bones at 400 °F (200 °C) for about 25 minutes. This step is pure magic — it caramelizes the bones and starts building a deep, nutty flavor that your broth will be known for. Plus, it adds a beautiful golden hue to the finished broth.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
Once your bones are perfectly roasted, transfer them into a large pot. Toss in the quartered onion, chopped carrots, celery stalks, and don’t forget the apple cider vinegar. Add the 12 cups of water, ensuring everything is submerged. The vinegar works quietly here, helping to draw out essential minerals from the bones as everything simmers.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Bring your pot to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it bubble away slowly for anywhere between 12 to 24 hours. The longer you simmer, the more nutrient-dense and flavorful your broth becomes. Keep it covered to preserve moisture, and check occasionally to skim off any impurities that rise to the top.
Step 4: Strain and Store
After your patient simmering journey, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. This ensures a silky smooth broth without any bone fragments or veggie bits. Let it cool, then refrigerate or prepare to use immediately.
How to Serve Beef Bone Broth Recipe
Garnishes
While the broth is spectacular on its own, garnishes take it up a notch. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds vibrant color and freshness. A few cracked black peppercorns bring warmth, and a splash of lemon juice brightens the deep, meaty flavors. If you’re feeling cozy, a tiny pinch of sea salt can perfectly balance the savoriness.
Side Dishes
This beef bone broth pairs beautifully with light, comforting sides that don’t overpower it. Think a simple slice of crusty bread for dipping or a side salad with crisp greens and a lemon vinaigrette. It’s also divine alongside roasted vegetables or over a warm bowl of sautéed greens for a low-carb, nutrient-rich meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond sipping it straight or using it as a base for soups, you can get creative by turning this broth into a velvety sauce for roasted meats or drizzle it over hearty grains like quinoa or barley. For a unique twist, freeze the broth in ice cube trays to add a burst of flavor to stir-fries and sauces whenever you need it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your freshly made beef bone broth, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, making it a convenient ingredient to have on hand for quick meals or a comforting sip anytime you crave.
Freezing
To preserve your broth for longer, freezing is your best friend. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for portion control, then freeze. The broth can keep its rich flavor and nutritional benefits for up to three months when frozen properly.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your chilled or frozen broth, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warm. Avoid boiling it again to maintain that delicate balance of flavor and nutrients. Stir occasionally, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have a fresh cup ready to warm your soul.
FAQs
Can I use any type of beef bones for this recipe?
Absolutely! Marrow bones, knuckle bones, or a combination both work wonderfully since they each contribute different textures and nutrients, especially collagen and minerals.
Why do I need to add apple cider vinegar?
The acidity in the vinegar helps break down the bones to release their minerals and collagen into the broth, making it more nutritious and silky in texture.
Can I add other vegetables or herbs?
Definitely! Garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and even fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary make your broth a richer and more complex flavor experience.
How long should I simmer the broth?
The ideal range is 12 to 24 hours. Longer simmering extracts more nutrients and flavor, but even at 12 hours, you’ll have a deeply nourishing broth.
Is beef bone broth keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and packed with protein and minerals, making it perfect for keto, paleo, Whole30, and low-carb diets.
Final Thoughts
Making your own beef bone broth is such a rewarding and comforting ritual that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your body with nourishing goodness. This Beef Bone Broth Recipe is easy, flexible, and endlessly versatile — I encourage you to try it yourself. Once you do, it’ll quickly become a cherished staple you’ll love to come back to again and again.
Print
Beef Bone Broth Recipe
- Total Time: 12 hours 10 minutes to 24 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cups
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Nourishing, collagen-rich beef bone broth that is perfect for sipping on its own or using as a flavorful base for soups and stews. This easy-to-make broth extracts deep flavors and nutrients through slow roasting and gentle simmering, resulting in a rich, comforting liquid packed with health benefits.
Ingredients
Beef Bones
- 2 lbs beef bones (marrow or knuckle)
Vegetables
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 12 cups water
Instructions
- Roast the Bones: Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Arrange the beef bones on a baking sheet and roast them for 25 minutes. This step deepens the flavor by caramelizing the bones and releasing rich aromas.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the roasted bones to a large pot. Add the quartered onion, chopped carrots, celery stalks, apple cider vinegar, and 12 cups of water to the pot. The vinegar helps extract minerals and collagen from the bones.
- Simmer the Broth: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Maintain a low simmer for 12 to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the collagen to fully release. Avoid boiling to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
- Strain and Store: After simmering, carefully strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. Let it cool, then store in airtight containers. The broth can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Notes
- Add garlic, bay leaf, or peppercorns during simmering for richer, more complex flavor.
- Skim foam occasionally during simmering for a clearer broth.
- Use marrow bones for richer, more gelatinous broth or knuckle bones for good collagen extraction.
- Broth can be enjoyed on its own or used as a nutritious base for soups, stews, and sauces.
- Store extra broth in ice cube trays for convenient portioning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–24 hours
- Category: Broth / Base
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
