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A steaming bowl of vegetable soup made with rich homemade beef bouillon.

The Ultimate Guide to Making Homemade Beef Bouillon from Scratch


  • Author: Cato
  • Total Time: 6:30
  • Yield: About 8 cups 1x

Description

Learn how to make homemade beef bouillon from scratch with this ultimate guide! Discover step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and creative ways to use bouillon in soups, sauces, and more. Perfect for elevating your cooking game!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 pounds beef bones (marrow bones, knuckle bones, or oxtail)

  • 1 large onion, quartered (skin on for color)

  • 2 carrots, roughly chopped

  • 3 celery stalks, roughly chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed

  • 2 bay leaves

  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

  • 1 bunch parsley stems (reserve leaves for garnish)

  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

  • 1216 cups cold water (enough to cover ingredients)

  • 12 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)

  • Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1-inch piece of ginger, or 1 cup mushrooms for extra flavor


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bones:

    • Rinse the beef bones under cold water to remove any debris.

    • Optional: Blanch the bones by boiling them in water for 5-10 minutes, then drain and rinse again. This step removes impurities for a clearer broth.

  2. Roast the Bones (Optional but Recommended):

    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Place the bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.

  3. Simmer the Bouillon:

    • Transfer the roasted bones to a large stockpot. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, parsley stems, and thyme.

    • Cover with cold water (12-16 cups) and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

    • Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 4-6 hours. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

  4. Strain and Store:

    • Carefully strain the bouillon through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot. Discard the solids.

    • Let the bouillon cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers or jars.

  5. Optional: Make Bouillon Cubes or Powder:

    • Reduce the bouillon by simmering until it’s highly concentrated (about 1/4 of its original volume).

    • Pour into ice cube trays and freeze, or dehydrate to make powder.

Notes

  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.

  • Customization: Add ginger, mushrooms, or tomato paste for unique flavors.

  • Salt Adjustment: Add salt gradually, especially if you plan to reduce the bouillon further.

  • Prep Time: 30
  • Cook Time: 6
  • Category: Broth/Stock
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Universal

Nutrition

  • Calories: 25-30 kcal
  • Sodium: 300-500mg
  • Fat: 1-2g
  • Carbohydrates: 2-3g
  • Protein: 2-3g