Why Make Your Own Bone Broth

As Thanksgiving approaches, this is the perfect time to talk about bone broth. We spend so much time preparing and seasoning that turkey just right, yet many people throw away the most valuable part when the meal is over.

Do not toss the carcass. After dinner, place the whole bird into your crockpot and let it continue nourishing your family for days. My leftover turkey always makes the most flavorful and comforting bone broth.

Why Homemade Bone Broth Is Still the Best

Bone broth is easy to find in stores today, but homemade is still superior. It has a richer flavor, contains more nutrients, and is much easier on your budget. It is also one of the simplest and most traditional ways to support your body naturally.

• Gut health
• Immune function
• Joint strength
• Healthy skin and hair
• Overall nourishment

This simple food has been used for generations as a foundational healing food. It truly is a more nourishing version of the chicken soup your mother or grandmother made when you were sick.

The Nutrient Power of Bone Broth

When prepared properly, bone broth contains easily absorbed minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, and potassium.

It also provides gelatin and collagen, which support the lining of the digestive tract, connective tissue, and skin. These nutrients are especially important for those dealing with digestive issues, inflammation, fatigue, or recovery after illness.

This is one reason we often include bone broth in many of our Marpé Nutrition detox and wellness programs. It is gentle, healing, and deeply supportive of the body.

How to Make Bone Broth

The Thanksgiving Turkey Version

This is by far the easiest and most flavorful way to begin.

After your Thanksgiving meal

1. Place the entire turkey carcass into your crockpot. Include the bones, skin, and any leftover pieces.
2. Add filtered water to fully cover the bones.
3. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar, such as Bragg’s, to help draw out the minerals.
4. Simmer on low for twenty-four to forty-eight hours.

That is all you need. The turkey already contains wonderful flavor from the herbs and seasoning.

If using a stovetop, simmer for at least twelve hours, though longer is even better.

Making Bone Broth Throughout the Year

You do not have to wait for Thanksgiving. Bone broth can be made year-round using chicken, beef, or lamb bones.

For these versions:

• Roast the bones first to deepen the flavor
• Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic
• Include a splash of apple cider vinegar

You can also add:

• Liquid aminos
• Lemon juice
• Sea salt and pepper
• Fresh ginger

Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary create an incredible aroma while cooking. This is also a wonderful way to use leftover vegetables such as cabbage, zucchini, or peppers.

Avoid broccoli or cauliflower, as they can change the flavor and make the broth bitter.

Cooking Tips for the Best Results

• Simmer for at least twenty-four hours
• Longer cooking extracts more nutrients
• Use filtered water whenever possible
• Strain when finished and store in glass containers
• Freeze portions for easy use later

The finished broth should be rich and golden. When refrigerated, it will often gel. This is a sign of high collagen content and excellent quality.

How to Use Bone Broth

Bone broth is incredibly versatile. You can:

• Drink it warm in the morning
• Use it while fasting
• Add it to soups, stews, and sauces
• Cook vegetables or grains in it
• Support recovery and immune health during cold and flu season

Many of our clients find it especially helpful during detox programs or when rebuilding the gut.

A Nourishing Tradition to Continue

As you clean up after Thanksgiving this year, remember that your turkey can continue to nourish your family long after the meal is over. What once might have been thrown away can become one of the most nourishing and comforting foods in your kitchen.

Freeze what you do not use, and keep this simple tradition alive in your home.

At Marpé Nutrition, we believe that some of the most powerful tools for nourishing YOU are also the most simple. Bone broth is one of them.

If you would like to learn more about how whole foods and personalized nutrition can support your health journey, we would love to help.

You can contact our office at 215.450.8745 or visit marpenutrition.com to schedule a consultation.