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Broth vs. Stock vs. Bone Broth

What is Broth?

Broth is a rich, flavorful cooking ingredient made from the simmering of a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices in water.

Simmer time: 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Typically used in recipes where you want to enrich the flavors of your dish or side, although it is also delicious on its own.  Try using broths for:

Homemade soups (start with Swanson for a flavorful foundation).

Superior sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, rice, and steamed vegetables (adds both flavor and moisture).

What is Stock?

Stock is made similar to broth but includes simmering bones in addition to a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices in water.  These ingredients also simmer for a longer period of time to enhance the flavor.

Simmer time: 4 to 6 hours.

The longer simmering time results in a full-bodied richer flavor.

Stock is used as a higher quality ingredient in recipes where you want to enrich your dish or side with more flavor. Try using stocks for:

Deglazing your pan when browning meats.  Perfect when making a stew.

Your base for delicious skillet sauces or for a full-bodied gravy.

What is Bone Broth?

Bone broth is a further evolution of broths and stocks, made from the simmering of bones in addition to a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices in water.  These ingredients simmer for the longest period of time to maximize the flavor derived from the cooking process.

Simmer time: 12 to 48 hours.

The long simmering time creates a bone broth with full-bodied flavor and naturally occurring collagen protein.

Bone broth can be enjoyed in several ways. Some of our favorite ways to enjoy it are as:

A warm and savory beverage – add flavors like lemon or ginger for a delicious twist

A flavorful foundation for your favorite homemade soup, skillet, or side dish recipe