Classic Beef Bouillon
Rich and savory beef broth infused with vegetables and herbs, perfect for soups or as a flavorful base for various dishes, appealing to meat lovers and home cooks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crack the beef bones to expose the marrow.
- Brown the bones in a small amount of fat in a large kettle.
- Add the sliced carrots, sliced onions, diced celery with leaves, chopped parsley, peppercorns, bay leaf, and salt to the kettle.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and skim off the foam that rises to the surface.
- Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 3 hours until the broth is reduced by half.
- Remove the bones, large pieces of meat, and vegetables from the broth.
- Strain the broth through a cheesecloth to remove solids.
- Use the clear broth in recipes calling for beef bouillon or serve as a clear soup.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your beef bouillon, consider roasting the bones for a deeper, richer taste before simmering. If you don't have beef bones, chicken bones can be a great substitute. Additionally, feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth. This recipe can be made in a slow cooker for convenience, allowing the flavors to meld slowly.
Serving Suggestions
This classic beef bouillon can be served as a warming clear soup on its own or used as a base for hearty dishes like stew or risotto. It pairs beautifully with hearty bread or can be used in recipes like Hamburger Steak Deluxe. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bouillon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the broth in ice cube trays or freezer bags, which can be easily thawed when needed. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the flavor and clarity of the broth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Beef Bouillon contains roughly 624 calories, with 52g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (263% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (213% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1694mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of bones for this recipe?
Yes, while meaty beef bones are traditional, you can use a mix of beef and chicken bones or even pork bones to create a unique flavor profile. Just ensure that the total weight remains around 6 lbs for the best results.
How can I adjust the seasoning in the bouillon?
Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a more complex flavor, consider adding garlic or additional herbs like thyme or bay leaves. Always taste the broth towards the end of cooking to find the right balance for your palate.
What should I do with the leftover solids after straining?
The leftover solids can be composted or discarded, but if you want to avoid waste, consider using any remaining meat in a stir-fry or soup. The vegetables can be pureed into a spread or used as a base for a vegetable stock.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).