Chicken bone broth-a nutritious elixir which can be found increasingly across health and wellness circles. It’s a soothing warm drink, but it also forms the basis of so many different recipes. Yet sometimes, plain chicken bone broth can be a bit too bland. Keep in mind that adding plenty of flavor to your chicken bone broth does not have to add unwanted calories. So let’s take a deep dive into a few fabulous ways to spice up your broth while keeping it healthy.
1. Why Flavor Matters in Chicken Bone Broth
Before giving you tips, let’s talk about why flavor is important. A good-flavored chicken bone broth can make a boring soup into a gourmet meal. It will also push you to have more broth in your diet every day, thus getting the best out of it in terms of health benefits, such as improved digestion, healthy joints, and radiant skin. With the right flavors, chicken bone broth becomes an irresistible addition to your wellness routine.
2. Herbs and Spices: Your Secret Weapons
It is easy to add variety to chicken bone broth through the use of herbs and spices, and they all have zero calories!
Best Herbs for Chicken Bone Broth
- Thyme: Subtle earthy
- Rosemary: Pine-like fragrance
- Parsley: Freshness and a hint of pepper
Must-Try Spices
- Turmeric: Adds warm, slightly bitter undertone while boosting anti-inflammatory properties.
- Black Pepper: Adds a fullness to the broth and contributes toward nutrient absorption.
- Bay Leaves: adds a subtle, deep complexity to the broth
You can just chuck these into the simmering bone broth with the chicken and see what happens. For an extra kick, briefly toast your spices before adding to the pot
3. Orange/Zest for added flavor
Citrus zest-from lemons, limes, or oranges-is a game-changer. It adds brightness to your chicken bone broth without adding any calories. The oils in the zest provide a concentrated flavor burst, perfect for reviving your broth.
To use, grate a small amount of citrus zest and stir it into the hot broth just before serving. Be careful not to overdo it; a little zest goes a long way.
4. Aromatic Veggies for Natural Essence
Garlic, onion, and celery are always part of broth-making. The wonderful natural aromas and flavors they impart to chicken bone broth don’t add extra calories.
How To Use Them:
- Garlic: Mash up a clove and simmer it in the broth.
- Onions: Quarter an onion and leave the skin on for a pop of color and more depth of flavor.
- Celery: Add some leaves and stalks for that fresh, herbaceous pop.
For a richer flavor, roast the vegetables before adding them to your broth.
5. Vinegars and Acidic Boosts
A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of citrus juice can brighten the flavor profile of your chicken bone broth. Acids balance the richness of the broth and highlight its savory elements.
Best Options:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick and aids digestion.
- Lemon Juice: Perfect for a fresh, clean taste.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Gives a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Add these sparingly to not overpower the broth.
6. Umami Boosters for Depth
Umami, or the “fifth taste,” brings an earthy, savory depth to chicken bone broth that’s simply satisfying.
Calorie-Free Umami Options:
- Mushroom Powder: Concentrated source of earthy umami flavor.
- Seaweed: Add a small strip of kombu or nori for a subtle, briny taste.
- Tomato Paste: A small dab can work wonders in boosting umami.
These are all ingredients that will add depth of flavor without adding extra calories.
7. Fresh Herbs as Garnishes
Fresh herbs add visual appeal, but also have a nice flavor punch to chicken bone broth, making it a restaurant-worthy dish.
Top Picks:
- Cilantro: Provides a fresh citrus note.
- Basil: Best for a sweet, peppery taste.
- Chives: Have a mild onion flavor.
Sprinkle chopped herbs over the top of your hot broth before serving.
8. Infused Oils: A Flavorful Touch Without Calories
While oils do contain calories, you don’t need much to make a big impact. Infused oils, especially those flavored with garlic or chili, can be used sparingly to add depth to your chicken bone broth.
How to Use:
Drizzle a few drops of infused oil on the surface of your broth just before serving. The aroma will enhance the overall experience without significantly increasing calorie content.
9. Experiment with Tea Infusions
For an unexpected twist, try steeping a tea bag in your chicken bone broth. Herbal and green teas add unique flavors and antioxidants.
Suggested Teas:
- Ginger Tea: Adds warmth and spiciness.
- Green Tea: Provides a slightly grassy, earthy flavor.
- Chamomile Tea: Adds a hint of floral sweetness.
Experiment with steeping times to achieve your desired taste.
10. Salt Alternatives for a Healthier Kick
Too much salt masks the subtle taste of chicken bone broth. So, choose a natural, calorie-free alternative.
Good Options:
- Celery Salt: Mild natural saltiness
- Nutritional Yeast: Cheese-like, rich in umami
- Liquid Aminos: Soy sauce like but less salty
These give the broth more flavor without adding table salt.
Conclusion: Improve Your Chicken Bone Broth
Add one or more of these creative, calorie-free elements and transform your chicken bone broth into an irresistible masterpiece. Herbs and spices add a slightly earthy element while citrus zest offers a piquant crunch of flavor for added depth; whatever your idea of personal style may be, your bowl won’t be sorry.
So, grab your favorite pot and start experimenting. Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you!
