Bone broth has long been cherished for its rich flavors and nourishing qualities, but traditional versions often rely on animal bones. What if you could enjoy all the comforting benefits of bone broth while keeping it 100% plant-based?
Enter the vegan bone broth – a hearty, flavorful, and nutrient-packed alternative that’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing taste. This broth is bursting with umami goodness, thanks to a medley of vegetables, seaweed, and spices simmered to perfection.
Not only is it incredibly versatile as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, but it also offers a soothing, health-boosting sip on its own. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or a seasoned vegan, this recipe will quickly become a kitchen staple.
Ready to create a rich, savory broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl? Let’s dive into this detailed vegan bone broth recipe that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan bone broth recipe is a game-changer for those craving deep, comforting flavors without using animal products. It’s not only nourishing but also incredibly simple to prepare with everyday ingredients.
- Rich in nutrients: Loaded with minerals and antioxidants from vegetables, seaweed, and herbs.
- Immunity support: Perfect for sipping during cold seasons or whenever you need a health boost.
- Versatile base: Use it as a soup base, cooking liquid for grains, or a flavorful broth for sauces.
- Gluten-free and soy-free: Accommodates various dietary needs and preferences.
- Long shelf life: Can be refrigerated or frozen for convenient use later.
Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (fresh or dried)
- 1/2 cup dried seaweed (kombu or kelp)
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley stems and leaves
- 8 cups filtered water
- Salt to taste
Equipment
- Large stockpot or slow cooker (minimum 6-quart capacity)
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large bowl or container for storing broth
Instructions
- Prepare your vegetables: Wash and roughly chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Smash the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
- Heat the stockpot: Place the pot over medium heat and add a splash of water (or a little oil if preferred). Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add mushrooms and seaweed: Toss in the shiitake mushrooms and dried seaweed. Stir well to combine and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes to release their umami flavors.
- Add water and seasonings: Pour in 8 cups of filtered water. Add apple cider vinegar (this helps extract minerals), black peppercorns, bay leaves, and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the broth: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, uncovered, for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor and nutrient content.
- Strain the broth: Once simmered, remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot. Press gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Season and store: Taste the broth and add salt as needed. Let it cool down before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra depth of flavor, try roasting your vegetables before simmering. This caramelizes their natural sugars and adds a beautiful richness to your broth.”
- Use vegetable scraps: Save peels and ends of carrots, onions, and celery in a bag in the freezer to use for broth-making.
- Add herbs: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or sage for different flavor profiles.
- Boost umami: Include dried tomatoes, nutritional yeast, or a splash of tamari for a savory punch.
- Slow cooker method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours for a hands-off approach.
- Make it spicy: Add a small piece of ginger or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for warmth.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per 1 Cup (240ml) |
---|---|
Calories | 40 |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Protein | 2g |
Fat | 0.5g |
Fiber | 2g |
Vitamin A | 1500 IU (30% DV) |
Vitamin C | 6 mg (10% DV) |
Iron | 1.2 mg (7% DV) |
Sodium | 150 mg (varies with added salt) |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan bone broth is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Sip it warm for a comforting, hydrating drink that feels like a cozy hug on chilly days.
Use it as a base for hearty vegetable soups or stews, adding legumes and grains for a complete meal.
For a quick meal, cook your favorite rice or quinoa in this broth instead of water to infuse extra flavor. You can also add it to sauces and gravies to elevate their taste without adding animal products.
If you love exploring new dishes, try pairing it with recipes like Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for wholesome, satisfying meals.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan bone broth is a fantastic way to enjoy all the benefits of traditional bone broth without relying on animal products. This recipe is rich in flavor, nourishing, and incredibly adaptable to your tastes and pantry staples.
Whether you’re sipping it on its own or using it as a base for soups and stews, this broth adds depth and comfort to any meal.
Besides being delicious, it’s also a wonderful way to reduce food waste by utilizing vegetable scraps and create a nutrient-dense liquid that supports your well-being. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious plant-based creations like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to expand your vegan cooking repertoire.
Happy cooking and nourishing!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Bone Broth Recipe
Description: A nourishing and flavorful vegan broth packed with vegetables and herbs. Perfect as a base for soups or sipping on its own.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT2H
Total Time: PT2H15M
Servings: 6 cups
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 8 cups water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms; sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add apple cider vinegar, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, and thyme.
- Pour in water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 hours.
- Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve.
- Discard solids and let broth cool before storing.
Nutrition: Calories: 60 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 7 g
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