Legume Free Slow Cooker Bone Broth

Total time24 hr 45 min

Prep time15 min

Cook time30 min

4.8

(11)

Rich, deeply savory, and built for the long game, this slow cooker bone broth is the kind of kitchen project that rewards patience in the best possible way. Roasting the beef bones first at high heat coaxes out a deep, caramelized flavor before they ever hit the slow cooker — it's a step that makes a real difference in the final color and complexity. Apple cider vinegar goes in early to help draw minerals and collagen from the bones over the long cook, and after 20 to 24 hours on low, you're left with a broth that gels firmly when chilled — a sign you've done everything right. Aromatics like smashed garlic, fresh thyme, whole peppercorns, and a spoonful of tomato paste round out the flavor without any fuss. For anyone avoiding legumes, this recipe is naturally in the clear — every ingredient here is straightforward meat, vegetables, and pantry staples with nothing hidden to worry about. Skim the fat once it's chilled, and you've got a clean, nourishing broth ready to sip straight from a mug or use as a base for soups, braises, and sauces all week long.

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

8 servings

3 lb mixed beef bones (knuckles, marrow bones, and/or oxtail)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 medium carrots, roughly chopped
3 stalks celery, roughly chopped
1 medium yellow onion, quartered
6 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 bay leaves
1 tsp whole black peppercorns
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 tsp salt
10–12 cups cold water (enough to cover bones by 1 inch)

Instructions

1
Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the bones in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until deeply browned on the surface.
2
Transfer the roasted bones to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, tomato paste, bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme, salt, and apple cider vinegar.

Want the full recipe?

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