Homemade Chicken Stock

Name: Homemade Chicken Stock
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Yield: 8 cups
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1.5 kg chicken bones (roasted); 2 carrots (chopped); 2 celery stalks (chopped); 1 onion (quartered); 3 garlic cloves (smashed); 2 litres water; 2 tsp salt (to taste); 1 tsp black peppercorns; 1 bay leaf

255 min 8 cups Medium

All Recipes

Rich and flavourful homemade chicken stock for soups and stews.

Prep

15 min

Cook

240 min

Total

255 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Homemade chicken stock is the foundation of many comforting dishes, offering depth and richness that store-bought versions simply can't match. By using fresh ingredients and simmering them slowly, you can extract every ounce of flavour from the chicken bones and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to elevate their soups, stews, and sauces. The slow simmering process not only brings out the best in each component but also fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that makes it worth the wait.

Instructions

Prepare the bones

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread the chicken bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes until golden brown.

Pro tip: Roasting enhances the flavour of the stock.

Combine ingredients

In a large stockpot, add the roasted bones, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and water.

Add seasonings

Stir in the salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf.

Simmer the stock

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 3-4 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.

Pro tip: Avoid letting the stock boil vigorously to keep it clear.

Strain the stock

Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, discarding solids.

Pro tip: For even clearer stock, strain twice.

Cool and store

Allow the stock to cool before refrigerating or freezing. Skim off any solidified fat before using.

Pro tip: Divide into portions before freezing for easy use.

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Tips & Tricks

Roast bones for deeper flavour.
Simmer gently to avoid cloudiness.
Skim regularly for a clear broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in homemade chicken stock?

There are approximately 35 calories per cup of homemade chicken stock.

How long can homemade chicken stock be stored?

Homemade chicken stock can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I use chicken stock for?

Chicken stock is great for soups, stews, risottos, and as a base for sauces and gravies.

Why roast the bones for chicken stock?

Roasting the bones enhances the depth of flavour and adds richness to the stock.

How do I keep my chicken stock clear?

Simmer gently and regularly skim off foam, and strain carefully to maintain clarity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade chicken stock as a base for soups or stews, or use it to enhance sauces and gravies. It's versatile and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Pair it with a hearty chicken noodle soup or a creamy risotto. Making a big batch allows you to have this liquid gold ready whenever you need it.