Italian bone broth, known as brodo, is a clear, nourishing broth made by gently simmering meat, bones and aromatics. It’s simple, comforting and deeply rooted in Italian home cooking.

This is my Nonna’s recipe for brodo, and it holds a very special place in my heart. It’s one of the first foods I can remember having as a child, usually served with tiny star-shaped pasta (stelline). It was also one of the first foods I fed my son — something that’s quite common in Italian families, because brodo is so nourishing and gentle.

You’d be hard pressed to find anyone in my extended family who didn’t have some brodo in their freezer, especially in the winter months. I swear this stuff has medicinal powers. If anyone was ever sick with a cold or flu, a cup of brodo would make you feel better. During the COVID years, we’d often drop it off to each other if someone was unwell.

What is Brodo?

Brodo, the Italian term for bone broth, is a nutrient-dense liquid. It is made by simmering bones (marrow bones, oxtail, and chicken wings) together with vegetables and herbs for 4 hours. It has been a staple in the Italian culture for centuries due to its rich flavour and numerous health benefits.

Health Benefits of Brodo

1. Rich in Nutrients: Brodo contains a variety of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. The slow cooking process helps extract these nutrients from the bones and connective tissues.
2. Supports Joint Health: The collagen and gelatin in bone broth can support joint health. They provide the building blocks for cartilage. This can help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
3. Improves Gut Health: The gelatin in bone broth can help heal the gut lining. This is beneficial for people with leaky gut syndrome and other digestive issues. It also supports healthy digestion by aiding the absorption of nutrients.
4. Boosts the Immune System: The minerals and amino acids in bone broth can strengthen the immune system. They help the body to fight off infections and illnesses more effectively.
5. Promotes Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails: The collagen in bone broth supports the health and elasticity of the skin. It reduces wrinkles and improves overall skin texture. It also contributes to strong hair and nails.
6. Aids in Detoxification: Brodo helps the body detoxify by providing essential amino acids like glycine. These amino acids support the liver in removing toxins from the body.
7. Supports Bone Health: The calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in bone broth contribute to the maintenance of strong and healthy bones.
8. Provides Energy and Hydration: Brodo is a good source of hydration. It provides a boost of energy due to its rich nutrient content. It can be particularly beneficial when recovering from illness or surgery.
9. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The amino acids in bone broth, such as glycine and arginine, have anti-inflammatory effects. They can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Tips for making Brodo

You can’t rush Brodo! You need to take your time! Start this recipe the day ahead. You want to use the Brodo after it spends the night in the fridge.

Tips for a clear Brodo – Take your time with the skimming process. Do this when you are boiling the bones at the start. Scum or foam (the impurities from the bones/meat) will rise to the top of the Brodo. You will need to continuously skim this off with a spoon. The process will take at least 15 minutes and often longer. Keep going until it no longer comes to the surface. This will result in a beautiful and clear broth.

Tips for making a non-oily Brodo – Once you have strained the bone broth, you need to let it cool. Then pop it in the fridge overnight. The purpose of this is so that all the fat rises to the top and solidifies. In the morning you will be able to scoop the fat off with a spoon. Then when you heat it back up, you will have a lovely, clear and smooth Brodo.

Ways To Serve Brodo

On special occasions as a family we often have Tortellini in Brodo as a delicious soup. However, it can be used for so much more. You could call Brodo the back bone of Italian cooking. It is used in so many dishes and is often that secret ingredient that makes everything taste better.

• Drink it: For a nutritious and delicious hot beverage. Have it when you are feeling a little under the weather. It’s great if you are just trying to keep those wrinkles at bay! Heat Brodo up and sip away.
• Risotto: When risotto is made with Brodo instead of store bought stock it adds the most amazing depth of flavour!
• Soup Base: Brodo makes a wonderful base for soups, adding far more depth and richness than water or store-bought stock. I use it in my Nonna’s Pasta e Fagioli where the homemade broth is an important part of the flavour of the finished dish.
• Sauces and Gravies: Use Brodo as a base for making sauces and gravies. It can enhance the taste and nutritional content of dishes like pasta sauce, gravy, and reduction sauces.
• Stews and Braises: Use Brodo to braise meats and vegetables. Add it to stews for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
• Pasta: Cook pasta in Brodo instead of water to infuse it with extra flavor. Alternatively, use Brodo as a light sauce for cooked pasta.

Storage Tips for Brodo

Proper storage of Brodo (Italian bone broth) is essential to maintain its flavour, freshness, and nutritional benefits. Here are some tips for storing Brodo effectively:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Cool Before Storing: Allow the Brodo to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
   • Use Airtight Containers: Store the broth in airtight containers. This helps prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge. It also keeps it fresh.
   • Label and Date: Label the containers with the date so you know how long it has been stored.
   • Shelf Life: Brodo can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
2. Freezing:
   • Portioning: Divide the broth into smaller portions before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw only the amount you need.
   • Freezer-Safe Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as the broth freezes.
   • Ice Cube Trays: Pour the broth into ice cube trays to create small, easily usable portions. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
   • Label and Date: Label the containers or bags with the date. This will help you keep track of how long the broth has been frozen.
   • Shelf Life: Brodo can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Thawing and Reheating

3. Thawing:
   • Refrigerator Method: Thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight. This is the safest method and helps maintain the quality of the broth.
   • Direct Heat: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat the broth directly from frozen on the stovetop. Use low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
4. Reheating:
   • Stovetop: Reheat the broth on the stovetop over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the flavor.
   • Microwave: If using a microwave, heat the broth in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Final Thoughts

Brodo the humble bone broth is a testament to the enduring simplicity and depth of Italian cooking. You can use it as a base for soups. It enhances the flavour of risottos. You can also simply sip it for its nutritious warmth. Brodo is a versatile staple that brings comfort and nourishment to any meal. Buon appetito!