Chicken Bone Broth

My Unexpected Kitchen Adventure: The Magic of Chicken Bone Broth

For years, I've been a busy professional, juggling work, family, and trying to squeeze in a semblance of a personal life. My cooking, let's just say, was often a hurried affair—something quick, easy, and frankly, not always the healthiest. My kitchen was a battlefield of takeout containers and half-eaten bags of chips. But then, something shifted. A small, seemingly insignificant detail sparked a profound change in my approach to food, and it all started with a humble chicken carcass.

I'm not sure what prompted me, but one day, instead of tossing the bones from a roasted chicken into the trash, a tiny voice (perhaps my grandmother's) whispered, "Make broth." I'd heard about bone broth, of course, this magical elixir touted for its incredible health benefits. Skeptical but intrigued, I embarked on this unexpected culinary adventure. The process was surprisingly simple, though undeniably time-consuming. It involved simmering chicken bones with an assortment of vegetables and herbs—ingredients I usually wouldn't give a second thought to. The slow simmering process filled my small kitchen with a comforting aroma, a scent that evoked warmth and memories of home-cooked meals from my childhood.

As the hours ticked by, I realized that this wasn't just about creating a healthy broth; it was about embracing a more mindful approach to cooking. It was about respecting every part of the ingredient, transforming what was once considered waste into something nourishing and delicious. This newfound appreciation for the simple act of cooking started to seep into other areas of my life. It sparked a creative energy and a sense of accomplishment that I hadn't experienced before. The kitchen, once a source of stress, transformed into a sanctuary, a place of calm and creativity where I could unwind after a long day.

The resulting broth was far beyond my expectations. It was rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It wasn't just a soup base; it was a versatile ingredient that I could incorporate into countless recipes—soups, stews, sauces, even my morning coffee (yes, really!). It became a staple in my kitchen, and I found myself actively seeking out new ways to use it, pushing the boundaries of my culinary imagination. The leftovers became the unexpected star of many of my weeknight dinners, a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transformed through time and intention.

The journey of making chicken bone broth taught me much more than just a recipe. It was a lesson in mindfulness, resourcefulness, and the importance of embracing the slower pace of life, especially when time is always a luxury. It's a reminder that simple things can hold immense power and potential, and that even in the midst of a busy schedule, there's always room for nourishing practices both physically and mentally. I encourage you to try it yourself—you might be surprised at the transformative power of a humble chicken carcass.

From that day forward, my kitchen became a place of intention and mindful cooking. I explored other broths, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques. The once-overlooked scraps and ends of vegetables found new life in my pots and pans. The journey of making broth wasn't just about the end result; it was about the process, the quiet moments of reflection, and the profound sense of satisfaction that comes from nurturing oneself with food made with love and intention.

And so, my culinary journey, propelled by a simple chicken carcass, continues. It's a journey of mindful eating, of embracing simplicity, and of discovering the hidden treasures that lie within the most humble of ingredients. It's a story of transformation, both in my kitchen and in my heart, a testament to the unexpected magic that can be found in the most unassuming places.

Step-by-step

• Place the chicken bones into a 12-quart stock pot, and cover with water. In the Instant Pot, do not exceed about 2/3 full.
• Add the veggies, herbs and apple cider vinegar.
• Bring to a low boil.
• Reduce heat to the lowest setting.
• Partially cover, and simmer for at least 5 hours. You can cook it longer, but I would say no less than 5 hours. The longer the better!
• Strain and store in the refrigerator.
• Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot, and add water until it is about 2/3 full.
• Place the lid on, lock it, seal the vent.
• Use the manual setting to cook for 120 minutes.
• Use the quick release valve when time is up, or feel free to let it release naturally. Both ways work!
• After releasing pressure, remove the lid, and use a strainer to separate the liquids from the solids.
• Place all ingredients in a slow cooker, and fill with water.
• Cook on low for at least 12 hours, up to 24 hours.
• Use a strainer to separate the liquids from the solids.