My Homemade Magic in a Mug: My Love Affair with Bone Broth

Hey there,, I'm diving into a topic that's close to my heart (and stomach): Bone Broth. You might have heard about this trendy yet ancient concoction, but let me tell you, it's more than just a passing fad. It's a nourishing elixir that has become a staple in my kitchen.

What is Bone Broth, Anyway?

Bone broth, in its simplest form, is made by simmering animal bones (chicken, beef, or even fish) for an extended period, often with herbs, vegetables, and spices. This slow cooking process extracts nutrients like collagen, amino acids, and minerals, turning it into a powerhouse of goodness.

Why I'm Hooked

The benefits? Oh, where do I begin! After incorporating bone broth into my daily routine, I noticed remarkable changes. My digestion seemed smoother, my skin felt more hydrated, my immune system stronger, and that afternoon energy slump? A thing of the past.

Now, let's geek out a bit on why bone broth is such a superstar for the immune system:

1. Rich in Minerals: Bone broth is packed with minerals like zinc, selenium, and magnesium. These are like the unsung heroes of our immune system, playing crucial roles in keeping our body's defense mechanisms strong and responsive.

2. Collagen and Amino Acids: Collagen is the star component of bone broth. It's not just great for our skin but also supports gut health. Why does that matter? Well, a healthy gut is essential for a robust immune system. The amino acids in bone broth, like arginine, glutamine, and cysteine, have been shown to boost immunity too.

3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation can weaken our immune system. Bone broth contains compounds like glycine and proline that have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to create a more balanced immune response.

Let's dive into why bone broth is a bit of a superstar for our digestive system:

1. Hello, Collagen!: Collagen, a key component of bone broth, is not just good for your skin. It plays a crucial role in repairing and strengthening the gut lining. A healthy gut lining is vital for preventing leaky gut syndrome, where toxins and food particles escape into the bloodstream, causing inflammation.

2. Amino Acids Galore: Bone broth is rich in amino acids like glutamine, which is a hero for gut health. Glutamine supports the integrity of the intestinal wall and can help with everything from leaky gut to overall gut maintenance.

3. Gut-Friendly Gelatin: When you simmer those bones for hours, they release gelatin. This gelatin is basically cooked collagen and is fantastic for gut health. It helps with digestion by binding to water in the gut, which can aid in moving food smoothly through your digestive tract.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is a no-no for digestive health. The glycine and proline in bone broth have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm down inflammation in the gut, leading to better digestive health.

Crafting the Perfect Brew

Making bone broth at home can be a therapeutic ritual. I love how my kitchen fills up with the earthy aroma (or as Shelby and Kelsey say, very smelly) as the broth simmers gently, blending the flavors of herbs, bones, and vegetables. Whether you're using a slow cooker or a simple pot, the key is patience. Let the broth simmer for hours to extract all the goodness from the bones.

When trying to decide on what I wanted from my bone broth, I knew I wanted to use beef and chicken. I have used just chicken bones before and I wasn’t impressed with the amount of collagen or taste. It was too bland. I always add in veggies; carrots, celery, parsley, onion, and garlic. Sometimes I will add in sweet potatoes or squash. I always add salt and apple cider vinegar and cover the ingredients with water. Just a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar per gallon of water is all you need. It's like adding a pinch of magic to the pot. Add it right at the start with your bones and other goodies, and let the slow simmer do the rest.

Alright, let's chat about why we add a splash of apple cider vinegar when brewing up a pot of bone broth. It's not just for kicks; there's a method to this madness! The Magic of Apple Cider Vinegar in Bone Broth

1. A Mineral Treasure Hunt: Think of apple cider vinegar as the key that unlocks the treasure chest of minerals in bones. This humble kitchen staple is quite the hero when it comes to teasing out those valuable minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus from the bones into your broth. These aren't just any minerals; they're the ones that keep our bones strong and our bodies humming.

2. Collagen, Come Forth!: Here's where things get really interesting. The acidity of apple cider vinegar works like a charm in breaking down collagen and connective tissues in the bones. This is like turning the bones into a goldmine of gut-healing goodness. Collagen is the stuff that not only gives the broth its signature silky texture but also does wonders for our own connective tissues.

3. A Bounty of Nutrients: By coaxing these elements out of the bones, apple cider vinegar ensures our broth is brimming with a spectrum of nutrients. It's not just about minerals and collagen; there are amino acids and other health-boosting compounds joining the party too.

4. Flavor's Little Helper: Now, if you're worried about your broth tasting like a salad dressing, fear not. The amount of apple cider vinegar we're talking about here is just enough to do its job without stealing the flavor show. It adds a subtle zing that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

It's More Than Just a Health Drink

What I adore about bone broth is its versatility. It's not just a drink; it's a fantastic base for soups, stews, and even cooking grains. I've experimented with various recipes, adding my twist here and there. Whether it's chicken chili, beef stew, rice pilaf, or a classic chicken soup, the possibilities are endless.

So there you have it, my little love letter to bone broth. It's not just a trendy health drink; it's a nurturing, healing, and delicious addition to anyone's diet. If you haven't yet, I encourage you to try it. Who knows, it might just be the thing you didn't know you needed!

Stay healthy and happy sipping!

Xoxo,