1. Choosing the Right Bones
Selecting the right type of bones is a basic yet crucial step. Opt for bones such as marrow bones, oxtail, or breast bones as they contain more marrow and nutrients, resulting in a sweeter and richer broth. Bones with more connective tissue and fat will add depth and flavor to your broth.
2. Properly Prepare the Bones Before Braising
Before braising, it’s essential to clean and remove any unwanted impurities and odors from the bones. A common method is to blanch the bones in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. This helps remove blood and impurities from the bones. Afterward, rinse the bones with cold water to ensure all traces of impurities are gone, resulting in a clear broth.
3. Timing of Salt Addition
A common mistake is adding salt at the beginning of the braising process, which can make the broth cloudy and less refreshing. This is because salt increases osmotic pressure, causing the protein in the bones and meat to break down faster and dissolve into the water.
Therefore, it’s best to add salt only after the water has come to a boil, all the foam has been skimmed off, and the braising has been underway for about 30 minutes to an hour. This way, the salt enhances the flavor without affecting the clarity of the broth.
4. Troubleshooting Cloudy Broth
If your broth turns cloudy, don’t worry! You can try these simple methods to improve its appearance:
– Use an egg white: Lightly beat an egg white and slowly pour it into the gently boiling broth. The egg white will combine with the impurities, forming a foam that rises to the surface. Once it solidifies, simply skim it off, and you’ll notice a clearer broth underneath.
– Filter with a clean cloth: Once the broth has cooled down, use a clean cloth to filter it. This helps remove any floating impurities, resulting in a clearer broth. 
Important Notes for Braising Bones
– Always skim off the foam during braising to remove any impurities that rise to the surface, keeping your broth clear.
– Braise the bones at a low temperature with a gentle simmer. Avoid a vigorous boil, as it can stir up impurities and make the broth cloudy.
– Avoid stirring the pot while braising, as this can disperse the impurities and make the broth cloudy. 
With these tips and notes, you’ll be able to create a clear, sweet, and flavorful broth for your family meals. If you encounter cloudy broth, simply apply the troubleshooting methods, and you’ll quickly fix the issue, resulting in a perfect dish.
