Step-by-step Guide to Preparing Aip-approved Bone Broth at Home

Bone broth is a nutritious and comforting food that fits well into the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet. Making your own AIP-approved bone broth at home ensures you control the ingredients and quality. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process from start to finish.

Ingredients and Supplies Needed

• Bone (beef, chicken, or turkey)
• Filtered water
• Apple cider vinegar (raw and unfiltered)
• Vegetables (carrots, celery, onions—omit if strict AIP)
• Herbs (such as thyme or rosemary, optional)
• Large stockpot or slow cooker
• Strainer or fine mesh sieve

Preparation Steps

Start by choosing high-quality bones. Organic, grass-fed bones are ideal for nutrient density. Rinse the bones thoroughly to remove any debris or blood.

Place the bones in a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar—about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water. This helps extract minerals from the bones.

Cover the bones with filtered water, ensuring they are fully submerged. If using vegetables and herbs, add them now for extra flavor and nutrients.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the first hour.

Allow the broth to simmer gently for at least 12 hours, up to 24 hours for maximum nutrient extraction. If using a slow cooker, set it on low and let it cook overnight or during the day.

Finishing and Storage

Once the cooking time is complete, remove the bones and vegetables with tongs or a slotted spoon. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl or container.

Allow the broth to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate. The fat will solidify on top, which can be removed if desired. The broth can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality, grass-fed bones for maximum nutrients.
• Adding apple cider vinegar helps extract minerals but keep the amount moderate to stay AIP-compliant.
• Simmering for a long time ensures a rich, gelatinous broth.
• Skim impurities regularly for a clearer broth.
• Label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

Enjoy your homemade AIP-approved bone broth as a nourishing drink or a base for soups and stews. It’s a wholesome addition to your healing diet!