Description
Beef bones are a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient that can elevate your cooking and support overall health. From making collagen-packed bone broth to incorporating marrow into savory dishes, beef bones add depth, flavor, and essential nutrients to your meals. Whether you’re preparing soups, stews, or even pet-friendly treats, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using beef bones effectively.
Ingredients
3–4 lbs beef bones (marrow bones, soup bones, or knuckle bones)
10–12 cups water
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (to extract minerals)
1 onion, quartered
2–3 carrots, chopped
2–3 celery stalks, chopped
4–5 garlic cloves, smashed
Optional seasonings: bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, peppercorns, salt
Instructions
Instructions
Making Bone Broth on the Stovetop
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the beef bones for 30–45 minutes until golden brown. This enhances the flavor of the broth.
Transfer the roasted bones to a large stockpot. Add water, apple cider vinegar, vegetables, and seasonings.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
Simmer uncovered for 12–18 hours, adding more water as needed to keep the bones submerged.
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into jars or containers. Discard solids.
Slow Cooker Method
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 18–24 hours or high for 8–10 hours.
Strain the broth and store as directed above.
Instant Pot Method
Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set to “Soup” mode for 90–120 minutes under high pressure.
Allow natural pressure release for 15–20 minutes before opening the lid. Strain and store the broth.
Notes
Always use raw bones for pets to avoid splintering hazards.
Grass-fed beef bones are richer in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants compared to grain-fed options.
Freeze broth in portion-sized containers for easy use later.c
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–18 hours (stovetop), 8–24 hours (slow cooker), 1.5–2 hours (Instant Pot)
- Category: Main Dish, Soup Base, Stock
- Method: Simmering, Slow Cooking, Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Global (used in various cuisines)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 1gr
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2gr
- Saturated Fat: 1gr
- Unsaturated Fat: 1gr
- Trans Fat: 0gr
- Carbohydrates: 2gr
- Fiber: 0gr
- Protein: 6gr
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Beef bone broth recipe, how to make bone broth, grass-fed beef bones, slow cooker bone broth, instant pot bone broth