Immunity Boosting Bone Broth

Immunity Boosting Bone Broth

**Ingredients:**

- 2-3 pounds of chicken bones (you can use the leftover bones from a roasted chicken or buy bones from a butcher)

- 1 onion, peeled and quartered

- 2 carrots, washed and roughly chopped

- 2 celery stalks, washed and roughly chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, smashed

- 2 bay leaves

- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

- 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, helps extract minerals from the bones)

- Water (enough to cover all the ingredients)

- Salt, to taste (added later)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Bones:**

   - If you're using leftover bones from a roasted chicken, make sure to remove any remaining meat from them.

   - You can also ask your butcher for chicken bones specifically for making broth.

2. **Roast the Bones (Optional):**

   - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   - Place the chicken bones on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20-30 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step enhances the flavor of the broth.

3. **Combine Ingredients:**

   - In a large stockpot or slow cooker, combine the roasted chicken bones (or raw bones), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns.

4. **Cover with Water:**

   - Pour enough water into the pot to cover all the ingredients.

5. **Simmer:**

   - If using a stovetop, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 4-6 hours. The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor.

   - If using a slow cooker, set it to low and let it cook for 8-12 hours or overnight.

6. **Skim the Surface:**

   - As the broth simmers, you might notice foam and impurities rising to the surface. Use a spoon to skim these off periodically.

7. **Strain the Broth:**

   - Once the broth has simmered to your satisfaction, remove the larger solids with a slotted spoon. Then, strain the remaining liquid through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another pot or large bowl.

8. **Season with Salt:**

   - Taste the broth and season it with salt to your liking. Start with a teaspoon and adjust as needed.

9. **Cool and Store:**

   - Let the broth cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing it.

   - Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or in the freezer for several months.

You now have a delicious and nutritious chicken bone broth that can be used as a base for soups, stews, or enjoyed on its own for its health benefits. Enjoy!