Citric Acid Free Beef Bone Broth

Total time12 hr 50 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time30 min

5.0

(5)

Rich, slow-simmered bone broth is one of those deeply nourishing staples that feels almost medicinal in the best possible way — warming, savory, and endlessly versatile. For anyone avoiding citric acid, store-bought broths and stocks can be a minefield, since many commercial versions sneak in citric acid as a preservative or flavor enhancer. This recipe keeps things completely clean, relying on apple cider vinegar instead to gently draw collagen and minerals out of the bones during that long, low simmer. The result is a deeply amber, gelatin-rich broth built on nothing but beef bones, fresh vegetables, aromatics, and time. Roasting the bones first at high heat unlocks a level of savory depth that you simply cannot get from a carton on a shelf. Ginger and turmeric add a subtle warmth and earthiness that makes this broth feel nourishing even before you've done anything with it. Sip it straight from a mug, use it as a base for soups and stews, or freeze it in portions so you always have something wholesome on hand.

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Ingredients

8 servings

4 lb beef bones (knuckles, marrow bones, and/or oxtail)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 medium carrots, cut into 2-inch pieces
3 stalks celery, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, quartered
6 cloves garlic, smashed
2 bay leaves
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh parsley
1 tbsp fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
12 cups cold water, or enough to cover bones by 2 inches

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the beef bones in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bones are deeply browned on the cut surfaces.
2
Transfer the roasted bones to a large stockpot (12-quart or larger). Pour off and discard any rendered fat from the roasting pan, then add 1–2 cups of the cold water to the hot pan and scrape up the browned bits with a wooden spoon. Pour this liquid into the stockpot.

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