Chestnut Free Fish Bone Broth

Total time2 hr

Prep time15 min

Cook time1 hr 15 min

There is something deeply nourishing about a slow-simmered broth made entirely from scratch, and this fish version delivers that same restorative quality you'd expect from a long-cooked bone broth — just lighter and more delicate. Mild white fish bones and heads form the base, coaxed into a golden, mineral-rich liquid with the help of a splash of apple cider vinegar that draws out every bit of goodness before the heat even turns on. Aromatics like leek, garlic, fresh ginger, and a whisper of turmeric give the broth warmth and depth without overpowering the clean, oceanic flavor underneath. The key to keeping it clear and bright is a patient, low simmer — no aggressive boiling — and a careful skim during those first critical minutes. Every single ingredient here is straightforward and naturally free from tree nuts of any kind, so there's no label-reading stress or substitution gymnastics required. Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve and what you're left with is a silky, versatile liquid that works beautifully as a soup base, a braising liquid, or simply sipped warm from a mug. Make a big batch and freeze it in portions — future you will absolutely be grateful.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

6 servings

2 lb fish bones and heads (from mild white fish such as halibut, cod, or snapper), rinsed
Kroger Farm Raised Tilapia Fillets Frozen BIG DEAL!Kroger Wild Caught Pacific Cod Fillets Frozen BIG DEAL!Sb Cod Fillets V/P waterfront BISTRO Cod Fillets Wild Alaskan Boneless & Skinless - 32 Oz waterfront BISTRO Tilapia Fillets Bonesless & Skinless - 32 Oz
See all
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
10 cups cold water
2 medium carrots, roughly chopped
3 stalks celery, roughly chopped
1 medium yellow onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 leek, white and light green parts only, roughly chopped and rinsed
1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
½ tsp ground turmeric
4 sprigs fresh thyme
4 sprigs fresh parsley
2 bay leaves
1 tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste

Instructions

1
Place the fish bones and heads in the stockpot and cover with the cold water. Add the apple cider vinegar and let the bones soak for 30 minutes — this helps draw minerals into the broth.
2
Set the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, skimming off any gray foam that rises to the surface during the first 10–15 minutes, until the liquid runs mostly clear.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!