In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food is medicine
We forget how easily we can make homemade healthy food, and, with the invention of the freezer, store it for extended periods of time. Making your own broth not only tastes better, but gives you control over what goes into it. Have you read what is actually in the broth you are buying now? Even the organic items have preservatives in it, and high sodium. Here’s an idea: how about making your own bone broth recipe as Traditional Chinese medicine?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, bones are related to the Kidney system. Therefore, by consuming the marrow from the bone you are in fact nourishing the Kidney. Think about when you are sick. Is chicken soup your go to food? Well that broth was made from chicken bones.
Benefits of Bone Broth as Traditional Chinese Medicine
Almost every culture believes in the benefits of fresh bone broth. In some cultures children were given bones to suck out the marrow because of the vital nutrients in them. Chinese Medicine believes that the Kidney system is the root of life, and that the Kidneys govern the bones. Therefore, the consumption of the bone marrow nourishes the essence or jing of the Kidneys. Today we know that this is because the marrow contains the omega 3 fatty acid DHA, which is required for the development of the brain, eyes and other organs in infants.
This is especially beneficial for those that are chronically ill (going though chemo/radiation), pregnant women whose babies are not growing at the rate they should be, and children who are not thriving.
People who are vegetarians, especially for ethical reasons, have problems with the whole concept of bone broth. However, we are very lucky in that there are a number of organic grass fed farms out there, and it brings me comfort to know that every part of the animal is being put to good use. I also make sure that while I am preparing the bones for roasting that I give thanks to the animal that gave its life for my nourishment. Some may find that part a bit cheesy, but it is what makes me feel more connected to this earth and to all those on it.
Recipe for beef bone broth
When making bone broth recipe, it is best to make it in large batches. Then once it is cooled skim the fat off of it, and freeze whatever you are not going to eat for the week. This allows for you to quickly access the broth for other recipes in the future. What makes this recipe so easy is that all you need is a large crock pot, or if you are home all day a large deep pot.
Whether you use the crock pot or the stove, just remember low and slow.
Cook time: 8 + hours
Prep: 25-30 minutes
Items:
- Approx. 3lbs of GRASS FED organic beef bones
- Filtered Water
- 3 Large chopped carrots (organic)
- 2 Large chopped celery sticks (organic)
- 5 Cloves garlic (This is a lot. I happen to like garlic. Feel free to use 3)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1 tsp Black peppercorns (to taste)
On a baking sheet lay out your beef bones. Bone side down. Bake at 375 for 25-30 minutes or until brown.
Add the carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves to the bottom of your crock pot, then put the roasted bones on top. Add the filtered water until everything is completely covered.
Turn on low and let cook for 8+ hours.
