The Ultimate Guide: How to Make a Crystal Clear Bone Broth

How to Braise Bones for a Clear Broth

For homemakers who frequently cook bone broth, it’s a well-known fact that the key to a delicious broth starts with choosing the right bones. Select bones that are fresh, with light pink meat that’s bouncy and not slippery or odorous.

If you come across bones with dark red, slimy meat that lacks elasticity, it means the bones are old. Once you’ve purchased your bones, simply rinse them with diluted salt water and a crushed knob of ginger. Then, blanch the bones in boiling water to remove any unpleasant odors and impurities.

Blanching Bones Before Braising

Start by placing the bones in a pot and covering them with water. Add an onion (you can also use ginger, onion, scallion, or other vegetables, as they all help neutralize the bone’s odor and enhance the sweetness of the broth). Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a low simmer.

Simmering on low heat allows the sweetness from the bones to gradually dissolve into the broth, resulting in a naturally sweet and flavorful broth. During the braising process, regularly skim off any foam that forms to ensure a clearer broth.

To expedite the tenderizing process, add half a green papaya to the pot. Papaya contains enzymes that help soften the bones, resulting in a sweeter and more appealing broth.

If your broth turns cloudy, don’t discard it! Instead, try one of the following tips to clarify it. Simply strain the bone broth through a fine-mesh bag to remove any sediment, resulting in a clearer broth.

Strain the Bone Broth

One way to ensure a crystal-clear bone broth is to use a clean, thin cloth (such as a mosquito net or milk filter) or a fine-mesh strainer to strain the broth. This will help remove any sediment, resulting in a clearer broth.

Additionally, try the following tips for an even clearer broth:

Use Egg Whites

Beat an egg white and add it to the broth. Gently stir to allow the foam to bind to the egg white, then remove it. This will help clarify the broth.

Use Raw Potato

Adding a few slices of raw potato or some dried shiitake mushrooms to the broth can help clarify it. Potatoes also add a delicious flavor and extra nutrition to the broth.

Use Grilled Onion

When braising beef bones, add a grilled onion (without burnt skin) to the pot. The red onion skin helps clarify and add a beautiful color to the broth, while the grilled onion helps mask the bone’s odor.

For chicken bone broth: If your chicken bone broth turns cloudy, continue boiling the bones to clarify the broth. Before use, strain the broth through a fine-mesh strainer or cloth to ensure a clear broth.