Bone broth has gained popularity in recent years due to its perceived health benefits, including aiding digestion, improving joint health, and gut-healing properties. It is often used as a base for soups and stews and sometimes consumed alone as a health drink.
While bone broth can be stored for a relatively long time, it does have a shelf life. The exact duration of how long bone broth lasts in the refrigerator varies based on whether it is homemade or store-bought. Let’s examine its shelf life in detail.
What is bone broth?
Bone broth is made by simmering bones (often beef, chicken, or fish) with water, vinegar, and various vegetables and herbs for an extended period, typically 12 to 48 hours. This slow-cooking process extracts collagen, amino acids, and minerals from the bones, resulting in a nutrient-dense liquid.
How long does bone broth last in the refrigerator?
Bone broth can last in the refrigerator for approximately 4-7 days if stored in an airtight container. However, the exact duration depends on the type. Homemade bone broth typically lasts 3-5 days, with store-bought varieties lasting up to a week due to preservatives.
Does bone broth go bad?
The answer is yes. Bone broth, like kimchi, can go bad. Here are some signs to watch out for:
It smells off
One of the most obvious signs of spoilt broth is an off smell. Fresh bone broth has a pleasant, savory aroma reminiscent of the ingredients used to make it, such as spices and vegetables. If the broth develops a sour or unpleasant odor, it’s gone bad and should be discarded.
Mold spots
Another vital sign of spoilage is the presence of mold, which can appear as green, white, or black spots on the surface of the broth. If you spot any molds, it’s advisable to discard the entire batch, as mold spores can spread throughout the liquid, even if they’re not immediately visible.
Slimy texture
Properly prepared and stored broth should have a smooth, gelatinous texture when cooled. If the liquid appears excessively slimy, watery, or separated in an unusual manner, it may indicate that it has begun to spoil.
Bitter taste
While the aroma and appearance might give the first clues, tasting the broth can provide a definitive answer. Fresh bone broth has a rich, savory flavor; if the broth tastes bitter or sour, it’s a clear sign that it has gone bad.
How to store bone broth in the fridge
There are several factors to consider when storing your broth, such as refrigeration, freezing, and container choices.
After making bone broth, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Use airtight containers to store the broth, and leave some space at the top, as the liquid will expand as it cools. Bone broth should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
For long-term storage, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled broth into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for smaller portions. Label the containers with the date to help track how long it has been stored. Frozen bone broth can stay good for up to six months.
How to make bone broth
Below is a simple recipe for making bone broth:
Ingredients
- Bones: Use a variety of bones, including marrow bones, knuckles, and joints. Beef, chicken, pork, or fish bones are commonly used.
- Vegetables: Common additions include onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps extract minerals from the bones.
- Herbs and spices: Bay leaves, peppercorns, thyme, parsley, and other herbs add flavor.
- Water: Enough to cover the bones and vegetables.
Roast the bones
Though optional, roasting enhances the flavor and adds a depth of color to the broth. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the bones on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning.
Simmer
After preparing the bones, place them in a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add cold water, enough to cover the bones by about an inch. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to help extract minerals from the bones. Include onions, carrots, celery, and any herb of choice, such as bay leaves, thyme, and parsley.
Avoid adding salt at this stage. It’s best to season the broth at the end of the cooking to control the final taste more precisely.
Cook the bones
Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. For beef or pork bone broth, simmer for about 24 to 48 hours. Chicken broth requires less time, usually 12 to 24 hours, while fish bones can yield a nutritious broth in as little as 4 to 6 hours.
Strain and store
Once the broth has finished cooking, allow it to cool slightly before straining. Use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to strain out the solids. Discard the bones and vegetables, as they will have given up most of their nutrients.
After straining, let the broth cool to room temperature, then transfer it to storage containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does store-bought bone broth last?
Store-bought broth can last up to 3-5 years in your pantry if stored in a cool, dry place. If prepared at home, it’s best consumed within 4-6 days.
Does bone broth need to be refrigerated?
Yes, bone broth needs to be refrigerated to maintain its quality and safety. It should be cooled quickly after cooking and stored in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within five days.
Does chicken bone broth have protein?
Yes, chicken bone broth contains protein, primarily in the form of gelatin. This protein content is one of the reasons its valued for its nutritional benefits, including supporting joint health and providing amino acids.
What does bone broth taste like?
It typically has a rich, savory flavor, with variations depending on the type of bones and seasonings used. Chicken bone broth has a mild, neutral taste, while beef broth has a richer, more robust flavor.
Wrapping up: How long does bone broth keep in the refrigerator?
Bone broth can and does spoil. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, it should be frozen in small portions, lasting up to 6 months. Be vigilant for signs of spoilage, such as off smells, molds, and slime.
