Homemade Chicken Stock Recipe (Whole30, Paleo) WonkyWonderful from wonkywonderful.com
Introduction
Chicken stock is a staple in many kitchens around the world. It is used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. Homemade chicken stock is more flavorful and healthier than store-bought versions. Making chicken stock at home is easy, and it requires only a few ingredients. In this article, we will provide you with a recipe for homemade chicken stock.
Ingredients
To make chicken stock, you will need the following ingredients:
1 whole chicken or 2-3 pounds of chicken bones and scraps
2 onions, roughly chopped
4 carrots, roughly chopped
4 celery stalks, roughly chopped
6 garlic cloves, crushed
A handful of fresh parsley
A handful of fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
10-12 cups of water
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by preparing the vegetables. Wash and roughly chop the onions, carrots, and celery stalks. Crush the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife. Gather a handful of fresh parsley and thyme. Set aside the bay leaves and salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
If you are using a whole chicken, place it in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. If you are using chicken bones and scraps, skip this step.
Step 3: Make the Stock
Add the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot with the chicken or chicken bones. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface with a spoon or a skimmer.
Step 4: Strain the Stock
Once the stock is done, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl or another pot. Discard the solids.
Step 5: Store the Stock
Let the stock cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. You can store chicken stock in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Nutrition
Homemade chicken stock is a healthy and nutritious addition to any diet. It is low in calories and fat and high in protein. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Chicken stock is especially beneficial for those with digestive issues, as it can help soothe and heal the gut lining.
Conclusion
Making chicken stock at home is easy and rewarding. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Homemade chicken stock is more flavorful and healthier than store-bought versions. It is also a great way to reduce food waste by using up chicken bones and scraps. Try making your own chicken stock today and taste the difference!
