Step 1: Roast the Bones (Optional but Recommended) 🔥

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your bones on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for 30-45 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned. This step brings out a richer flavor in the broth and is highly recommended for beef bones.

Step 2: Prepare the Pot or Slow Cooker 🏺

Transfer the roasted bones into a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add any aromatics you’re using, such as onions, carrots, garlic, and herbs. You can also add any other flavoring ingredients you like, such as peppercorns or ginger.

Step 3: Add Water and Vinegar 💧

Cover the bones and aromatics with cold water, leaving a few inches of space at the top. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to help extract minerals from the bones. Let this sit for 20-30 minutes before heating.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil and Reduce to Simmer 🔥

If using a stockpot, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 8-12 hours. If using a slow cooker, set it on low and let it cook for 12-24 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavor and nutrients will be extracted from the bones.

Step 5: Strain the Broth and Season 🧂

Once the cooking time is up, remove the bones and strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any solid pieces. Season with salt to taste, and let the broth cool.