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    Home » Recent Recipes

    Worcestershire Sauce Recipe

    worcestershire sauce in jar.

    This easy but wholesome Worcestershire Sauce recipe is recreated with real food ingredients and is soy-free and gluten-free. Add Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor of your favorite dishes.

    dark sauce in small jar with white ribbon

    This richly flavored sauce lies somewhere between a condiment and a seasoning. The main ingredients are vinegar, anchovies, tamarind, molasses, garlic, onions, and other spices and seasonings.

    Worcestershire sauce is a great flavor enhancer. It's an important ingredient in my homemade Caesar salad dressing. But it also adds a nice blend of sweetness and acidity to recipes like Veggie-Packed Sloppy Joes as well as Shepherd's Pie.

    These days, there are many brands of Worcestershire Sauce on the market with varying flavors and consistency.

    Chances are, you probably have a bottle of this condiment in the back of your refrigerator right now. But if you want to clean it up and give a shot at making a batch at home, this is it!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    ❓What is Worcestershire sauce?

    Traditional Worcestershire Sauce was a fermented brew containing fish sauce, malt vinegar and spices. The ingredients were set to mature for 18 months before being bottled in Worcester, England, where the exact recipe is kept a secret.

    The old school version is fermented in barrels and slowly cultured, releasing active enzymes.

    Making homemade Worcestershire Sauce can seem intimidating but with simple ingredient swaps, it's actually quite easy to make.

    💭Good to Know: Worcestershire is a highly mispronounced word. The correct pronunciation is 'woo-ster-sher'. 

    ❤Why you'll love this recipe

    • This homemade version is soy free, gluten free, and corn free (many conventional Worcestershire sauces have corn syrup that is likely GMO).
    • It uses nourishing ingredients that are naturally rich in minerals, enzymes, and vitamins and no xanthan gum or other thickeners.
    • This simple recipe can be conveniently made in 15 minutes with dried spices and seasonings.

    If you are looking for a fermented sauce, this isn't it. This recipe takes a traditional food and modernizes it with ingredients conducive to a busy kitchen, with no compromise in flavor or nutrition.

    Even though this Worcestershire Sauce adaptation comes short of the probiotic-rich craft, it's still a much better option than store bought sauces that are full of soy and high fructose corn syrup.

    This rendition comes pretty close to the original recipe in flavor and texture. So skip the sauces off the shelves of grocery stores and make the real thing at home, with nourishing recipes that you can feel good about.

    measuring spoons and small jar of dark sauce

    📖History of Worcestershire Sauce

    Worcestershire Sauce dates back to early 19th century when British Lord Sandys tasted it during his travels to Bengal. It's believed he appointed a pair of chemists to replicate the flavor.

    John Lea and William Perrins attempted to recreate the same flavor but were deeply disappointed with the results. Today, they're known as simply Lea & Perrins.

    They set the jars in the cellar and forgot about them only to discover them years later under a thick layer of dust.

    Turns out, the unintentional aging process created a rich and savory flavor that we now know as umami.

    The two partners bottled more of this concoction and before long, Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce spread throughout Europe and across the world. (source)

    🍲Ingredients

    This list of ingredients may appear exhaustive but it's necessary for the most flavorful sauce.

    ingredient collage of worcestershire sauce

    All ingredients are pictured in the collage image above, clockwise:

    • apple cider vinegar: most recipes call for white distilled vinegar but here we use apple cider vinegar. The flavor of apple cider vinegar and the health benefits outweigh its white counterpart
    • coconut aminos: this is a great soy sauce alternative. Prized for its high nutrient content, coconut aminos is often used in place of soy sauce. It's gluten-free and soy-free and adds great flavor to this sauce.
    • organic molasses: adds great depth of flavor and richness. Date paste works great as a Whole30 alternative. If making this Whole30 compliant, use only 2 tablespoons of date paste in place of molasses and omit the coconut sugar.
    • anchovy paste: this is gives that umami flavor.
    • coconut sugar
    • garlic powder
    • onion powder
    • ground mustard
    • dried ginger
    • cinnamon
    • black pepper
    • sea salt

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    🚫Dietary Substitutions

    This compliant Worcestershire sauce is gluten free, soy free, and grain free, making it naturally fit into a paleo diet lifestyle. It does have sweeteners like molasses and coconut sugar can be subbed with other sweeteners to make them compliant to a healing diet.

    • For a Whole30 friendly Worcestershire sauce, sub 2 tablespoons of date paste for molasses and omit coconut sugar.
    • For GAPS compliant sauce, use 2 tablespoons of honey as the sweetener.
    • To make vegan Worcestershire sauce, omit the anchovy paste.

    👩🏽‍🍳Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This Worcestershire sauce recipe calls for these ingredients: apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, molasses, anchovy paste, coconut sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, ground mustard, dried ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and sea salt.

    all dried seasonings in a pot with apple cider vinegar.

    Step 1. Simmer all ingredients

    In a small-medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients together. Bring the sauce mixture to a boil, whisking regularly. Reduce to medium heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes until all the flavors have incorporated.

    dark sauce being poured into a jar.

    Step 2. Transfer to jar

    Transfer the simmered Worcestershire sauce to a jar or bottle and allow to cool completely. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. The sauce will slightly thicken with cooled and refrigerated.

    💭Pro tip: You may run the sauce through a strainer to collect all the spices that haven't dissolved. I don't bother with this step and prefer to keep it along with the sauce so it continues to impart it's flavor, but that is a personal preference. 

    The sauce gets better with age so the longer you allow the ingredients to meld, the more flavorful it is.

    The amounts listed in the recipe card makes a small batch. I often double it to make twice as much since it keeps up to a year in the refrigerator.

    worcestershire sauce in weck tulip jar with bow.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: small saucepan, mesh strainer,
    • Ingredients: apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, blackstrap molasses, anchovy paste, coconut sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard seed, ground ginger, ceylon cinnamon, real salt, black pepper
    • Storage Supplies: jelly mason jars, tall weck jars, 12oz. glass sauce bottle

    🥗Serving Suggestions

    If you ever wondered how to use Worcestershire sauce, the easiest way is to think of it as a flavor enhancer.

    Worcestershire Sauce is one of those magical flavor-enhancing condiment with many uses. It can fix the most bland of recipes thanks to it's unique flavor profile. A splash of this magic concoction in a soup or chili may just save the day.

    It's great in ground beef recipes like Veggie-Packed Sloppy Joes and Shepherd's Pie.

    Additionally, Worcestershire Sauce is also great in homemade burgers or use as a tenderizer for tougher cuts of meat like roasts. It's also fantastic as part of marinade for chicken wings.

    But don't limit it's use to meats only. It's great in salad dressings like this Caesar dressing and even adds great flavor to a Bloody Mary, a savory cocktail made with tomato juice.

    ❄Storage Instructions

    To store: Worcestershire sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in a glass jar, bottle, or any airtight container for up to 1 year. Shake vigorously before use.

    Storage containers: any 12 ounce jar will work like these jelly jars or these Weck cylindrical jars; my preference is storing the sauce in 12 ounce glass bottles with flip top cap for easy pour

    dark sauce being poured into a jar.

    💬FAQs

    Is Worcestershire sauce gluten free?

    Making homemade sauce guarantees clean, wholesome ingredients. Using coconut aminos instead of wheat-containing soy sauce, you eliminate all gluten and soy in this sauce, which is important for those on a strict gluten-free diet.

    Is Worcestershire sauce vegan?

    Traditionally, this condiment calls for anchovy paste and it is the only non-vegan ingredient in this recipe. You can omit the paste to make it vegan compliant but it will change the flavor slightly.

    What is a good Worcestershire sauce substitute?

    It is sometimes necessary to completely avoid the use of Worcestershire Sauce. In those cases consider these alternatives: balsamic vinegar or glaze, coconut aminos, and hoisin sauce. Another suitable replacement is oyster sauce or fish sauce (my favorite brand is Red Boat Fish Sauce).

    Looking for ways to use Worcestershire sauce? Here are some ideas:
    • shepherd's pie in a cast iron skillet with a spoon.
      Traditional Shepherd's Pie Recipe with Lamb
    • Caesar salad dressing in a weck jar
      Healthy Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
    • Veggie-Packed Sloppy Joes (Paleo, Whole30, Low-Carb) - These 30-minute Sloppy Joes are packed with vegetables and loaded with flavor. Most importantly, this takes only 30 minutes to prepare (sweet potatoes included!). #paleo #sloppyjoes #lowcarbmeal #30minutemeal
      Veggie-Packed Sloppy Joes (Paleo, Whole30, Low-Carb)
    • spicy pork with veggies over ramen
      Spicy Pork Ramen Recipe
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    worcestershire sauce in jar.
    Print Recipe
    4 from 17 votes

    Homemade Worcestershire Sauce Recipe

    This easy but wholesome Worcestershire Sauce recipe is recreated with real food ingredients and is soy-free and gluten-free. Add Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor of your favorite dishes.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time15 minutes mins
    Total Time20 minutes mins
    Course: Condiment
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: gluten free Worcestershire sauce, paleo sauce, Worcestershire sauce
    Servings: 24 servings
    Calories: 18kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • small-medium saucepan
    • 12 ounce jelly jar for storage
    • 12 ounce glass sauce bottle for storage and convenient use

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
    • ¼ cup coconut aminos
    • 2 tablespoons molasses
    • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
    • 2 tablespoons anchovy paste
    • 2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 2 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon ground mustard seed
    • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
    • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
    • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

    Instructions

    • Combine all ingredients in a medium pot and bring to a boil, whisking regularly. Reduce heat to medium and gently simmer for 15 minutes.
      all ingredients in stock pan.
    • Pour sauce mixture into a bottle and set aside to cool. When cooled, transfer to the refrigerator.
      dark sauce in jar.

    Notes

    • For Whole30: use 2 tablespoons of date paste to replace molasses and coconut sugar
    • For GAPS: use 2 tablespoons of honey to replace molasses and coconut sugar
    • For Vegan: omit anchovy paste
    • Recipe makes 12 ounces, approximately 1 ½ cups, or 24 servings. Serving size is 1 tablespoon.
    • Can be refrigerated for up to 12 months. Shake well before use.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 18kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 133mg | Potassium: 46mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.2mg

    This post was originally published April 2019 but has since been updated to include helpful information.

    Spicy Sauerkraut with Ginger and Garlic

    fork in sauerkraut recipe.

    This Spicy Sauerkraut with Ginger and Garlic is a delightfully zesty take on traditional sauerkraut but is packed with antioxidants and beneficial bacteria that is great for gut health.

    sauerkraut with carrots in small white ramekin.

    This recipe was born out of my deep love for Korean Kimchi but with the desire to have something simpler, less ingredients, and possibly quick fermentation time.

    This Spicy Sauerkraut is a cross between Kimchi and plain fermented sauerkraut recipe but still uses traditional methods to draw out good bacteria. It's flavored with carrots, ginger, and garlic and makes a healthy condiment to accompany most dishes or even breakfast eggs.

    It's not as involved as Kimchi and can be prepped in under 30 minutes. The hardest part is waiting for it to ferment.

    If you want a very comprehensive post on fermenting cabbage - be sure to check out my homemade sauerkraut recipe. It's a basic recipe but packed with important information like the history of sauerkraut, health benefits, and the importance of using a salt calculator for consistent and reliable results.

    But if you're ready to dive in to make this delicious, tangy, and zesty Spicy Sauerkraut recipe - let's get to it!

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    ❤Why you'll love this spicy sauerkraut

    If you're a fan of spicy food, you'll love this recipe. It has tangy flavor with just the right amount of heat.

    • Money saver: cabbage is an inexpensive vegetable that when fermented right comes with great benefits
    • Immune system booster: packed with antioxidant rich ginger and garlic, this kraut is great to help support the immune system during cold and flu season
    • No mushy sauerkraut: this recipe uses weight instead of volume giving you perfectly crunchy, flavorful fermented food with the most perfect texture.
    💭Pro tip: To avoid mold on fermented foods, always use high salt concentration for best results. The bad yeasts cannot tolerate salt. A white film called kahm yeast may develop on the surface - that is common and totally harmless. But food with any mold growth that looks fuzzy, pink, blue, or green should be tossed immediately.

    🥬Ingredients

    This delicious sauerkraut has minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.

    sauerkraut recipe ingredients.
    • green cabbage: As with most ferments, organic is best but conventional cabbage is on the EWG's Clean 15 list so no worries if organic is not an option for you. We'll also be removing the outer leaves anyways.
    • carrot: This will add subtle sweetness to the kraut.
    • ginger: fresh ginger is best but frozen works too.
    • garlic: Fresh garlic cloves is ideal. Please avoid using jarred if at all possible.
    • unrefined sea salt: Kosher grains or fine salt is best but avoid coarse salt as that will delay the fermentation process. Don't use processed iodized salt. Real salt will act as a natural preservative and will create that salty brine. Our favorite is Redmond's Kosher Sea Salt. Use code NOURISH for 10% off.

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    📖Substitutions and Variations

    • Kick up the heat - add red chili flakes or hot peppers like jalapenos to bring up the spice level
    • Add classics - consider traditional additions like caraway seeds, bay leaves, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, red onions, or black pepper
    • Earthy flavor - a little grated turmeric root and celery root seeds would make a lovely turmeric sauerkraut
    cabbage sauerkraut in weck jar.

    💭Helpful Tips

    • 🧂Use a digital kitchen scale: This is important to get the proper salt concentration.
    • 🗓Fermentation Tip: The first 10 days is when active fermentation process occurs. Keep the sauerkraut loosely covered at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Burp your ferment daily during this bubbly stage.
    • ⏲️Time Saving Tip: Double the recipe and use the entire head of cabbage or make plain raw sauerkraut with the other half (since you already have all the ingredients and equipment out).
    • 🥫Keep it submerged: A glass fermentation weight will help to keep the cabbage mixture fully submerged in the brine.
    • 🚫Food Safety: Never eat anything with mold on it. If there is any kind of mold growth that looks fuzzy, pink, blue, or green - toss the food immediately.
    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: Most lacto-fermented foods, like this spicy sauerkraut, should be part of a nourishing meal. They are rich in gut-healthy beneficial enzymes (also probiotic bacteria) making them a natural probiotic in food form.

    👩🏽‍🍳Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This sauerkraut recipe calls for these simple ingredients: green cabbage, carrot, garlic, ginger, and sea salt.

    shredded sauerkraut in bowl.

    Step 1. Shred cabbage

    Add 600 grams of sliced cabbage to bowl - see notes in recipe card about accurately weighing using a digital kitchen scale.

    carrot, ginger, and garlic added to cabbage.

    Step 2. Add rest of ingredients

    Using the kitchen scale and taring it out between additions, add 80 grams of shredded carrot, 10 grams of ginger, 10 grams of garlic, and 17 grams of sea salt.

    💭Pro tip: The best way to shred cabbage is to run the cabbage wedges through the food processor, shredding into ⅛" ribbons. Alternatively, you can shred on a mandoline or cut into thin strips with a sharp knife.
    massaged cabbage for sauerkraut.

    Step 3. Massage cabbage

    Using clean hands or wooden spoon, massage the cabbage mixture and salt until it starts to release liquid.

    spicy sauerkraut transferred to jar.

    Step 4. Instructions

    Transfer the cabbage mixture and all juices to a quart size jar or a fermenting crock. Pack it in very tightly.

    💭Pro tip: If you want softer sauerkraut, massage cabbage firmly. For crunchier kraut, massage just enough to dissolve salt and combine everything well.
    fermtentation weight on top of spicy sauerkraut

    Step 5. Add fermentation weight

    Place a fermentation glass weight on top of sauerkraut. You may need to push the contents down to make sure everything is submerged. Loosely cover.

    released juices in sauerkraut.

    Step 6. Set aside to ferment

    Place the jar over a shallow dish to catch overflow brine. Set at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to 21 days to ferment. Burp the jar daily to release carbon dioxide.

    🧾Fermentation Timeline

    Over the next couple of days, during the active fermenting stage (bubbly phase of fermentation), open the jar to release carbon dioxide.

    Vegetables have a lot of water content so as with all ferments, you'll notice the amount of brine increase with each day. The brine or salty water may also become cloudy. That is normal and is part of the lacto-fermentation process.

    The color of the cabbage will turn from light green to more muted hue and the orange pigment from carrots may bleed into the cabbage strips. This is all normal and to be expected. That is all a natural process of fermentation.

    An easy way to test if your kraut is fermented enough is to do a taste test and transfer to the refrigerator when you feel it's tangy enough.

    Check out this timeline of this natural process of fermentation. Notice the amount of liquid that is released by day 6. Remember, we did not add any water - that is salt drawing out liquid from cabbage.

    fermentation timeline of spicy sauerkraut.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. Most likely you have these at home already but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl, kitchen digital scale, food processor, mandoline slicer, fermenting weights
    • Ingredients: real salt
    • Storage Supplies: wide-mouth mason jars for leftovers, Weck preserving jars Avoid plastic containers as this uses lactic acid fermentation and we don't want anything to leach into our foods.
    fork in sauerkraut jar.

    💬FAQs

    What do I do with the leftover sauerkraut brine?

    Don't toss the leftover liquid (brine) when all sauerkraut has been consumed. It's great as "gut shots" for their prolific beneficial bacteria. It can also be used as a starter culture for other ferments. Additionally, add a few tablespoons of this brine to salad dressing to swap out vinegar.

    What is the best salt to use to ferment sauerkraut?

    Ditch the iodized, highly processed salt for your fermented recipes. Good quality salt is so important to naturally ferment sauerkraut. Any unrefined sea salt will work - my favorite is Redmond's sea salt.

    Looking for more healthy fermented recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • raw sauerkraut in wooden bowl.
      Simple Raw Sauerkraut Recipe
    • fermented jalapeno slices in mason jar | how to lacto-ferment jalapeno peppers
      How to Make Lacto-Fermented Jalapeño Peppers
    • kimchi in half-gallon mason jar with lid on the side in how to make kimchi tutorial.
      How to Make Kimchi (Easy Fermented Kimchi Recipe)
    • green tomatoes with fresh dill in mason jar.
      Fermented Green Tomatoes (Pickled Green Tomatoes Recipe)
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    fork in sauerkraut recipe.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 2 votes

    Spicy Sauerkraut with Ginger and Garlic

    This Spicy Sauerkraut with Ginger and Garlic is a delightfully zesty take on sauerkraut that is packed with antioxidants and beneficial bacteria for gut health.
    Prep Time30 minutes mins
    Fermenting Time21 days d
    Total Time21 days d 30 minutes mins
    Course: Ferment
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: ginger garlic sauerkraut, spicy sauerkraut
    Servings: 16 servings
    Calories: 13kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • Food Processor
    • kitchen digital scales
    • fermentation weight
    • quart size mason jar

    Ingredients

    • 600 grams green cabbage shredded (approximately ½ medium cabbage head or 8 cups of shredded cabbage)
    • 80 grams carrots shredded (approximately 1 medium-large carrot)
    • 10 grams garlic minced (approximately 3 large garlic cloves or 2 teaspoons)
    • 10 grams ginger grated (approximately 1" knob or 2 teaspoons)
    • 17 grams sea salt approximately 2 ½ teaspoons

    Instructions

    • Discard outer leaves of the cabbage and rinse the cabbage under running water. Cut the cabbage in half, then in quarters and remove the core. Cut the quartered wedges in half, lengthwise creating 8 wedges. Cut thin ribbon-like strips across these wedges. Or run the wedges through a food processor using the grater attachment.
      cabbage in a food processor.
    • Add 600 grams of shredded cabbage to your bowl. This will be approximately ½ medium cabbage head or 8 cups. (See notes on how to accurately weight your ingredients for accurate fermentation.)
      shredded cabbage in bowl.
    • Using the kitchen processor or box grater, shred carrot on fine shredder and weigh out 80 grams. Mince garlic and ginger and weigh out 10 grams each. Add to bowl with cabbage. Sprinkle 17 grams of sea salt over the vegetables.
      adding carrots, ginger, and garlic to cabbage.
    • Massage the salt into the cabbage and carrot mixture with your hands until it starts releasing liquid. For softer sauerkraut, massage cabbage vigorously. For crunchier kraut, massage just enough to dissolve the salt and combine well.
      massaged cabbage sauerkraut recipe.
    • Transfer the cabbage and carrot mixture and all released juices to a quart-size jar, packing it in very tightly. Place the fermentation weight on top, pushing the veggies down with the weight so it's fully submerged in the liquid. (See notes for further details on this.)
      fermentation weight on top of cabbage.
    • Set the jar with sauerkraut over a shallow dish to collect overflow brine and place at room temperature away from direct sunlight for 21 days or until fermented to your liking. Afterwards, transfer to refrigerator. Burp the jar daily during the first week of fermentation.
      fork in cabbage sauerkraut with ginger and garlic to side.

    Notes

    • It's always best practice to sterilize your fermentation jar and weight before proceeding with recipe. To sterilize: fill the jar with boiling hot water and allow to to sit for 5 minutes before pouring the water out.
    • Using weight measurements instead of volume will give consistent results. Cabbage weight will vary by seasons and freshness. I provide volume measurements for reference but kitchen scale will yield reliable results.
    • To accurately weigh for sauerkraut: Turn on your kitchen scale and set it to weight in grams. Place your prep bowl on scale and zero/tare it out (this will subtract the weight of the bowl, giving you a 0.0 weight). Add cabbage until you reach 600 grams. Zero/tare out the scale again and add 80 grams of shredded carrots. Using the same method, weigh out 10 grams each of ginger and garlic and 17 grams of sea salt. Remove the bowl from the kitchen scale and proceed with the rest of the recipe.
    • Additional notes on step 5: For the first few days of fermentation, you may have to physically push the weight down to keep the cabbage mixture submerged in liquid. As sauerkraut releases more liquid over time, the fermentation weight will easily be submerged in brine and it will be unnecessary to push it down.
    • Recipe makes 1 quart or 16 servings. Serving size is ¼ cup.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 13kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 422mg | Potassium: 85mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 872IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 0.2mg

    Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

    beef and vegetable soup in white bowl

    This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup recipe is hearty, nutritious, and an incredibly easy one-pot meal. It's loaded with seasonal vegetables and is Whole30, Keto, and paleo friendly.

    vegetable soup in white bowl with dutch oven in background

    Soups are in season now that we're well into fall. It's a good thing that soups are delicious, versatile, and are great vehicles for nutrition.

    They're also pretty simple to make and most don't require gourmet or obscure ingredients not found in your local grocery store.

    This hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup is loaded with nutrition and naturally "thickened" with low carb vegetables.

    This soup can be made in under 35 minutes from start to finish. It's a one-pot wonder and that means less to prepare and less dishes to wash.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    ❤Why you'll love this soup

    • Easy Dinner Idea: With just 35 minutes and very little prep, you'll have nourishing dinner on the table!
    • Versatile: Use your favorite seasonal veggies to load this healthy soup with maximum nutrition.
    • Adapts to all dietary needs: This soup is so easy to modify to fit the health needs of the whole family.
    • Easy to bump up nutrition: With just a few simple tips you can make elevate the nutrition even more.
    💭Good to Know: The generous veggies, ground meat, and savory broth makes this hearty soup a complete meal. Serve with crusty bread on busy weeknights!

    🍲Ingredients

    This easy hamburger soup has very simple ingredients.

    You can follow this easy dinner recipe as written in the recipe card or you can cook from the heart and use whatever vegetables you have available to you.

    • ground beef: organic, grass-fed ground beef is ideal - I love using my Wild Pastures ground beef.
    • onion: yellow, white, or red onion will work
    • vegetables: any combination of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, bell pepper, green beans, asparagus (you'll need a total of approximately 4 cups of vegetables).
    • spinach: or dinosaur kale or baby kale
    • garlic and lemon juice: to add great flavor
    • canned tomatoes: jarred is ideal to avoid can liners but organic canned diced tomatoes will work too; use fire roasted tomatoes for the most delicious tomato-based broth
    • bone broth: beef broth is best for this soup but chicken broth will work in a pinch

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: Sub ¼ pound of ground beef with ground liver for extra nutrition.
    vegetable soup on ladle.

    📖What vegetables to use in Hamburger Soup?

    This beef and vegetable soup is packed with seasonal vegetables and those can very depending on location and seasonality. But a good rule of thumb is to use approximately 3 to 4 cups of different veggies.

    One word of caution when making soups with lots of vegetables: have a general idea of cooking time for various vegetables. With the exception of root vegetables, veggies in soup should not be mushy when served.

    • Green beans and asparagus can be used interchangeably in this soup, depending on what is available. Just trim them to bite size pieces.
    • Bell peppers, green beans, broccoli, and other softer vegetables should be added towards the end of cooking time.
    • Celery can be diced like carrots but if you don't care for celery (like my teenager), try celery seed. It's celery flavor without the texture.
    • Leafy greens like kale, spinach, collards, or sorrel are all great last minute addition. It adds great variety to the soup and boosts nutritional content.
    💭Pro tip: If really pressed for time, swap fresh veggies with a bag or two of frozen mixed vegetables. 

    🚫Dietary Substitutions

    Soups are great at building flavor as you make them, even with necessary modifications.

    • Low Carb and Keto Hamburger Soup: be sure to use vegetables with low carb count like broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, cauliflower, and bell peppers.
    • Whole30 and Paleo Ground Beef Soup: use dairy-free cooking fat like avocado oil, lard, or ghee. Also, make sure tomatoes don't have any sweeteners or additives.
    vegetables and beef on ladle.

    💭Helpful Tips

    • Same size veggies: make sure all veggies are cut into bite-size pieces that can fit on a soup spoon.
    • Cut prep time: don't care for chopping? Use frozen vegetables that are already cut into bite-size pieces
    • Celery haters: don't like celery? Use celery seed instead - it adds so much flavor without the texture that some kids don't like.
    • Nourishing soup: use properly prepared bone broth and add a little ground liver for extra nutrition. See my beef bone broth recipe here.
    • Save the leafy greens: for just until you are ready to serve so it keeps it's bright green color.

    👩🏽‍🍳Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This hamburger vegetable soup recipe calls for these ingredients: ground beef, yellow onions, carrots, celery (or celery seed), bell pepper, green beans or asparagus, crushed tomatoes, spinach, garlic cloves, bone broth and salt and pepper.

    Step 1. Cook onions

    Heat avocado oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat on stove top. Add diced onions and cook until translucent.

    Step 2. Brown ground beef

    Push the onions to the sides of the pot and add ground beef to the center. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, breaking up the meat.

    Step 3. Add flavorings and liquids

    Add minced garlic, celery seed, diced tomatoes, broth, and sliced carrots and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and continue to cook for 10 minutes or until carrots are tender.

    Step 4. Rest of veggies

    Add prepared bell peppers, green beans or asparagus, and sea salt and cook for 5 minutes on medium-low heat.

    Step 5. Finishing touches

    Turn off heat. Add spinach and squeeze lemon juice. Stir to combine and check for salt and pepper and adjust as needed.

    💭Pro tip: To keep the leafy greens a vibrant color, save to add them until just before serving. 
    vegetables and hamburger in soup.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this hamburger soup recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, dutch oven
    • Ingredients: real salt, black pepper, avocado oil, celery seed, organic pure lemon juice,
    • Storage Supplies: wide-mouth mason jars for leftovers, glass snap containers

    🥗Serving Suggestions

    This vegetable beef soup is already a complete meal. Add some garlic bread and you have an easy meal that will become a regular for the entire family.

    ♨️Storage and Reheating Instructions

    To store: Leftover hamburger vegetable soup can be stored in an airtight container or a small saucepan.

    Storage containers: These glass snap containers are perfect for leftovers.

    To freeze: This soup can be frozen in freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

    To reheat: Gently reheat on medium heat in a stainless steel soup pot until warmed through. Add another handful of spinach to add brightness before serving.

    asparagus and other veggies in white bowl in tomato broth

    💬FAQs

    Can I use frozen ground beef for this beef and vegetable soup?

    Yes, this soup can be made with frozen ground beef. Follow these steps:
    1) As the onions are cooking, place sealed package of ground beef in a bowl of room temperature water (this will help the sides to start thawing immediately).
    2) When onions are translucent, add partially thawed ground beef and start chipping away at it as it's slowly cooking.
    3) Flip it and scrape the cooked bits and continue to gently cook until semi-cooked through. Close the lid and allow the steam to speed the thawing.
    4) Continue to cook, flipping and scraping off the cooked meat until it's almost fully cooked.

    Looking for more healthy soups? Here are some ideas:
    • Soup of hearty vegetable soup with carrots, potatoes, mushrooms
      Healthy Vegetable Soup Recipe
    • healthy white chicken chili with avocado
      Instant Pot White Chicken Chili (Paleo, Whole30, Low-Carb)
    • Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup (Gluten Free, Paleo suggestions!) - Nourishing and full of detoxifying properties, this Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup is made easily with just 8 ingredients. Make this grain-free (paleo, keto, low-carb) and use vegetable noodles. #glutenfree #chickennoodlesoup
      Nourishing Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup (Egg Free, Dairy Free)
    • fish soup in white bowl next to spoon
      Easy Fish Soup Recipe (Simple Ukha Recipe)
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    beef and vegetable soup in white bowl
    Print Recipe
    4.65 from 56 votes

    Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

    This Ground Beef Vegetable Soup recipe is hearty, nutritious, and an incredibly easy one pot meal. It's loaded with seasonal vegetables and is Whole30, Keto, and paleo friendly.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time30 minutes mins
    Total Time40 minutes mins
    Course: Soup
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: ground beef vegetable soup, hamburger soup, keto hamburger soup
    Servings: 8 servings
    Calories: 381kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Ingredients

    • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or lard, tallow, ghee)
    • 1 cup yellow onion, diced (approximately 1 medium onion)
    • 2 pounds ground beef
    • 1 cup carrots, sliced (approximately 2 medium-large carrots)
    • 2 teaspoons garlic clove, minced (approximately 2 small garlic cloves)
    • 1 teaspoon celery seed optional
    • 1 28oz can diced tomatoes
    • 2 quarts beef bone broth
    • 1 cup green bell pepper, diced or chopped (approximately 1 green bell pepper)
    • 1 ½ cup green beans and/or asparagus, cut into 1-½" pieces
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt see notes
    • 2 cups spinach, packed or another leafy green like baby kale, collards, chard
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice approximately ¼ of medium lemon
    • salt and pepper, to taste as needed

    Instructions

    • Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (approximately 5 minutes).
    • Push the onions to the sides of the pot and add ground beef to the center. Try to keep the ground beef contained to the center but then it will get mixed with the onions as you stir and break it up. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, until there is almost no more pink in the meat.
    • Add sliced carrots, minced garlic, celery seed, crushed tomatoes, and bone broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and continue to cook for 10 minutes or until carrots are tender.
    • Add bell peppers and green beans or asparagus, and sea salt and cook for another 5 minutes on medium-low heat.
    • Turn off heat, add spinach or another leafy green and squeeze lemon juice. Stir to combine and check for salt and pepper. Adjust if necessary. Serve hot.

    Notes

    • Use 3-4 cups of variety of seasonal vegetables.
    • Amount of salt will depend on the salt content of your broth and tomatoes. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust as needed.
    • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Gently reheat on medium-low on stove top.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 381kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 477mg | Potassium: 515mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 3588IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 3mg

    This post was originally published September 2019 but has since been updated to include helpful information.

    Beef Bone Broth Recipe

    beef bone broth in mason jars.

    This Beef Bone Broth recipe is incredibly flavorful and nutrient-dense. It's an essential healthy food that starts with roasting various beef bones and gently simmering in the slow cooker.

    jarred beef bone broth

    Homemade beef bone broth is one of the most important elements of a nourished kitchen. Traditionally, all ancient cultures had their form of bone broth made with varying animal bones and veggie scraps.

    And yet, here in the modern western world, bone broth is so far removed from our diet and culture. Instead of properly prepared, deeply nutritious bone broths and stocks, we opt for artificial flavorings made in a lab to add flavor back to our dishes.

    But there is something so comforting and rewarding about making broth at home. The convenience of a slow cooker, makes this laborious task an easy and hands-off endeavor that will nourish your family well.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    🥣What is Beef Bone Broth

    Beef bone broth is a savory cooking liquid that involves barely simmering beef bones with vegetables, water, a touch of red wine, and aromatics for an extended period of time.

    Historically, the premise of bone broth was that nothing went to waste. As a result, our culture now considers animal bones used to make deeply nourishing broth as inferior.

    Good beef broth is made with several types of bones: knuckle bones for their rich collagen content, marrow bones for robust flavor, and meaty rib, neck and oxtail bones for color and taste.

    Beef bone broth should always start with properly roasting the bones. While this practice is not necessary in chicken bone broth, it is imperative in beef broth. This creates an immeasurable depth of flavor and definitely worth taking the time and effort.

    bone broth in white mug

    ❤Health Benefits

    Bone broth has become quite a health trend in recent years. But the reality is this ancient food has been a staple in real food kitchens for centuries.

    Properly prepared bone broth containing minerals of various bones, collagen from cartilage, vitamins in bone marrow, and vegetables for electrolytes is an extremely nutrient-dense food that is easy to assimilate.

    The red wine in beef bone broth works as an acidic medium to help draw out the minerals from the bones, thereby maximizing the efforts to make this as nutrient-dense as possible.

    There are many benefits of bone broth thanks to the high vitamin and mineral content. Regular consumption of bone broth is a wonderful way to support gut health. And optimal gut health is imperative to keeping a strong immune system.

    One of the prominent health benefits is the high collagen volume. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body that contains all 19 essential amino acids. Collagen is responsible for skin health and may help with joint pain as well as improving energy levels.

    Consuming good bone broth on a regular basis has been helpful in the healing of various autoimmune diseases. Moreover, it's one of the pillars in healing diets like GAPS diet, which emphasizes a natural approach to restoring leaky gut.

    Bone broth is a common staple in Whole30 and paleo diet as it's the best way to get maximum nutrition. Moreover, there's just something so delightful about a homemade soup made with the best bone broth.

    Overall, making a batch of bone broth is making an investment in your health and should be part of your real food diet.

    💭Pro tip: In savory dishes, use bone broth instead of water for added nutrition.
    soup bones on a sheet for roasting.

    🐄Beef bone broth vs. Chicken bone broth

    What is the difference between the two? And how do you know when to use which one?

    First, let's talk about similarities in both. Beef broth and chicken broth are both made from respective bones with various vegetable scraps, aromatics, and usually an acidic base to draw out the minerals. They are both considered a deeply nourishing food with many uses.

    Beef bone broth requires more time, in preparation and in simmering. You have to roast the bones first, then cook low and slow for up to 24 hours. You can do this on the stove top or as per recipe, in the slow cooker.

    Chicken bone broth doesn't require roasting the bones and can be made in 90 minutes in a pressure cooker. Check out my full recipe to Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth here that uses chicken feet for that extra collagen kick.

    As a result of roasting the bones and the addition of red wine in lieu of apple cider vinegar, beef bone broth has a very robust, rich flavor. It is great in beef-based soups like this Hamburger Vegetable Soup and Ground Beef and Kale Soup.

    Chicken bone broth is much milder in taste and is great in most soups like White Chicken Chili and this Instant Pot Chicken Stew. Additionally, because of it's moderate flavor it's a great liquid to use in cooking grains like buckwheat and rice.

    You can sip both beef bone broth and chicken bone broth straight from a mug as a nutrient-dense warm beverage. As well as used in gravies and to thin out sauces.

    beef bone broth in a mug.

    🥘Why slow cooker for bone broth?

    One of the reasons is a matter of convenience. Slow cookers, much like pressure cookers, are generally set-it-and-forget-it appliance which is perfect for broth.

    But there's also a fundamental reason to using a slow cooker for beef broth, specifically. And that's the importance of keeping the broth at a gentle simmer throughout the cooking process to ensure a clear broth.

    Beef bones are thicker and more dense than chicken bones so more time is needed to break down all the minerals. An Instant Pot, even at low pressure, will bring the broth to higher temperature than needed.

    We're looking for low temperatures for an extended cooking time.

    Slow and low is the name of the game here so pull out your crock pot and let's get started.

    🍖Ingredients

    If you've made my Chicken Bone Broth before, this will be an easy feat as the ingredients are very similar. The difference is we'll be using beef bones and swapping out a different source for acid.

    ingredients for beef bone broth
    • beef bones: the best bones for broth are knuckle bones (for connective tissues), beef marrow bones, meaty bones such as neck bones, oxtail and even leftover bones from ribs
    • vegetables: a yellow onion, few carrots, celery ribs, and parsnip are great additions for a flavorful broth
    • aromatics: this is what gives great flavor - I use bay leaves, lots of garlic, peppercorns, good quality sea salt (like Redmond's or Celtic sea salt) and fresh thyme but it also depends on what I have on hand at the moment.
    • red wine: an acid like red wine or apple cider vinegar will help draw out the minerals from the bones and add amazing flavor

    See recipe card for exact quantities but remember that homemade bone broth is a very flexible recipe. That means, feel free to use whatever you have on hand. The only caution is to not use too much water in ratio to the bones.

    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: To make the most nutritious, whole foods, traditional broth, use grass-fed beef bones as they will be higher in nutrition.

    👩🏽‍🍳Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This slow cooker bone broth recipe calls for these ingredients: beef bones of various kinds, yellow onion, carrots, celery, parsnip, bay leaves, peppercorn, garlic, fresh thyme, sea salt, and red wine.

    roasted bones on a baking sheet.

    Step 1. Roast bones

    Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread beef bones on a rimmed baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes or until browned.

    vegetables added to beef bone broth in slow cooker.

    Step 2. Add bones and veggies

    Transfer browned soup bones to the slow cooker, along with all pan drippings. Add all vegetables, aromatics, and seasonings to slow cooker.

    💭Pro tip: Making a big batch of bone broth is a good way to use up veggie scraps (onion peels, carrot ends, loose celery leaves). Just toss everything in your broth pot and set it to cook.
    adding water to broth.

    Step 3. Add liquids

    Add a little bit of red wine or apple cider vinegar as an acid. Then add just enough water to cover everything and keep it all submerged.

    closed slow cooker with vegetables.

    Step 4. Cook at low heat

    Set the slow cooker on low setting for up to 18 hours. The longer cook time will allow more minerals and vitamins to be drawn from the bones.

    💭Pro tip: In order for your broth to gel when chilled, it needs to have a proper ratio of bones to water. A good rule of thumb is to use 2:1 ratio (4 pounds of bones to 2 quarts of water) but use this only as a guide and adjust to what works for you.
    cooked veggies in slow cooker.

    Step 5. Lower the temp (optional)

    Change the setting from low cook to warm to lower the temperature even more. This step is optional but ensures that the broth is truly at a bare simmer and will not compromise the clarity of the broth. Between the low and warm setting, simmer broth for up to 18-24 hours.

    removing bones from bone broth.

    Step 6. Remove all solids

    Once the broth has completed its cooking time and has cooled enough to handle, scoop out all the bones, cooked vegetables, and the rest of the solids from the slow cooker. Transfer them to a colander over a rimmed dish to collect any residual broth in the scraps.

    running broth through sieve in mason jar.

    Step 7. Pour into jars

    Set a sieve over a wide-mouth mason jar and pour the broth through the sieve directly into the jar. Don't forget to transfer the broth that has run from the bones and veggies in the colander to the jars.

    removing bones from bone broth.

    Step 8. Chill broth

    When bone broth has thoroughly cooled at room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill. Once chilled, you may remove the fat layer (tallow) that has risen to the top and use it in other applications.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, stainless steel baking sheet, slow cooker, web strainer, mesh strainer, funnel, wide-mouth half-gallon mason jars,
    • Ingredients: real salt, black peppercorns, bay leaves
    • Storage Supplies: wide-mouth mason jars

    🍲Serving Suggestions

    My favorite way to effortlessly incorporate bone broth into our diet is to add it as a base to any soup recipe. Some of my favorite comforting soups are this Hamburger Vegetable Soup as well as this Ground Beef and Kale Soup.

    But bone broth is also great to make gravies and to thin out sauces. Additionally, sipping on a warm mug of homemade broth is a great way to consume it.

    ❄Storage and Freezing Instructions

    To store: Bone broth can be stored in wide mouth jars in the refrigerator. If they have a fat layer on top of the broth, that acts as a protective barrier from pathogens and bacteria and can last longer up to 1 month.

    Storage containers: These 2-quart mason jars are great for storage in refrigerator. But quart size or even pint size are also great for smaller uses like gravies and grain cooking.

    To freeze: If using jars, always leave at least 1" of headspace for liquid to expand. For same reason, use only wide-mouth jars to avoid glass shattering. When fully cooled, transfer the wide-mouth mason jars to the freezer and store up to 6 months. Alternatively to glass jars, use souper cubes which are conveniently measured out already. When frozen solid, transfer to freezer bags.

    chilled broth in mason jars.

    💬FAQs

    What is the best slow cooker for bone broth?

    I used an 8 quart slow cooker. Because the process is tedious, I would recommend using the largest slow cooker available to you. Make sure your slow cooker pot is free from scratches to avoid toxic leaching.

    What are the best bones for beef bone broth?

    In order to get the best flavor with maximum nutrition, use a variety of bones available to you. Knuckle bones, marrow bones, neck bones, meaty rib bones, or oxtails would work. Any bones with connective tissue will yield high-collagen broth. Your local farmer's market is the ideal place for that as you can get grass-fed bones but a local grocery store should have soup bones available at the meat counter.

    Can I reuse bones after making broth?

    Some people, especially in the Weston A. Price Foundation (WAPF) circle regularly reuse bones after making the first batch of bone broth. This is a matter of personal preference but I do not do this nor recommend it, especially after longer cooking time and low simmer.

    The reason is most of the minerals from the bones have been pulled into the broth and if you go for another round, the broth will be weak and not gel properly. You can rub the bone fragments between your fingers to see how brittle they are. It's not worth reusing those bones and I'd much rather do a fresh batch of broth.

    What do I do with the solid fat in my bone broth?

    The fat that accumulates on the top of the broth is known as coagulated fat and is very healthy for you. You can check out instructions in this post on how to render it into beef tallow. It's a fantastic high-heat saturated fat that is wonderful in any high temperature cooking.

    Looking for more nutrient-dense recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • raw sauerkraut in wooden bowl.
      Simple Raw Sauerkraut Recipe
    • chicken bone broth in white mug with carrots.
      Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth Recipe
    • beef liver pate in green ramekin
      Easy Beef Liver Pâté Recipe
    • Jar with creamy mayo.
      Homemade Avocado Oil Mayonnaise
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    beef bone broth in mason jars.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Slow Cooker Beef Bone Broth

    This Beef Bone Broth recipe is incredibly flavorful and nutrient-dense. It's an essential healthy food that starts with roasting various beef bones and gently simmering in the slow cooker.
    Prep Time30 minutes mins
    Cook Time20 hours hrs
    Roasting Time45 minutes mins
    Total Time21 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
    Course: Soup
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: beef bone broth, bone broth, slow cooker bone broth
    Servings: 6 servings
    Calories: 71kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • slow cooker
    • web strainer
    • wide mouth half-gallon mason jars

    Ingredients

    • 5 pounds beef bones marrow bones, knuckle bones, neck bones, rib bones, oxtails
    • 1 yellow onion halved or quartered
    • 3 celery ribs
    • 3 carrots
    • 1 parsnip
    • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
    • 4 bay leaves
    • 8 garlic cloves
    • 1 tablespoon peppercorns
    • 1 ½ tablespoons sea salt
    • ½ cup dry red wine or ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
    • filtered water enough water to cover all the ingredients

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. On a rimmed baking sheet, spread out beef bones. Roast for 45 minutes or until browned. Transfer bones with pan drippings to the slow cooker.
      beef bones in slow cooker.
    • Add vegetables and all seasonings on top of the bones.
      veggies on top of bones in slow cooker.
    • Add red wine or apple cider vinegar and enough water to cover all the ingredients.
      adding red wine to broth.
    • Close the lid and set the slow cooker on low setting for up to 4 hours. Then reduce the temperature by changing the setting to warm to keep it a bare simmer. If you don't have warm setting, set it to lowest temperature and keep the lid slightly ajar. Cook for up to 24 hours total.
      closed slow cooker with bones and veggies.
    • Once cooking cycle is complete, allow slow cooker to cool enough to handle. Remove all solids with a web strainer and transfer to colander set over a rimmed dish to collect any broth.
      Removing solids from slow cooker.
    • Pour the broth through a fine mesh sieve into mason jars or a glass container with a spout.
      running broth through a sieve.
    • When cooled to room temperature, transfer to the refrigerator to completely chill. You may remove the fat solids (tallow) that accumulate on the top.
      mason jars with bone broth inside.

    Notes

    • Recipe makes 3-4 quarts or 12-16 cups in an 8-quart slow cooker. Serving size is 2 cups.
    • Use any combination of beef bones available to you but the best broth is one with varied cut of bones.
    • Vegetables can be any veggie scraps like onion peels, carrot ends, random celery leaves, parsnips, etc.. Same is true for aromatics and herbs. Use whatever is available to you.
    • You can cook the broth for any length of time but for at least 12 hours for best flavor and maximum nutrition. You can also have it on warm setting for the entire cooking duration.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 1771mg | Potassium: 251mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 5157IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 1mg

    Healthy Stuffed Baked Apples

    stuffed apple half with ice cream and caramel drizzle.

    These Healthy Stuffed Baked Apples are filled with crunchy pecans, shredded coconut, and sweetened with a touch of honey for a truly nourishing, gluten-free, paleo and Whole30 apple dessert.

    stuffed apples in a baking sheet.

    This easy apple dessert is a fancy version of healthy apple crisp. It's a lovely blend of those familiar warm spices, crunchy pecan or walnut topping, and the irresistible sweet cinnamon all nestled in tender apple halves.

    It makes for such a cozy dessert that satisfies that sweet tooth but without the added sugar. Best of all, these paleo baked apples are incredibly simple to make and can be in the oven in just 10 minutes of prep time.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    ❤Why you'll love this easy recipe

    These healthy baked apples is a simple dessert recipe that doesn't require many ingredients or time. It has that perfectly crunchy, honey-sweetened pecan crumble that is the envy of all apple crisps.

    The best part is that it's only 5 simple ingredients (including the apples) and truly does not take more than 10 minutes to throw everything together.

    The hardest part is waiting patiently for the apples to bake while filling your house with that warm fall aroma.

    The most perfect way to enjoy these easy baked apples is to top with this 3-Ingredient Vanilla Ice Cream and drizzle with salted caramel sauce. It's a great dessert for sweater weather!

    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: For a truly healthier dessert, consider using soaked and sprouted nuts and seeds.

    🍲Ingredients

    The ingredient list for this baked apple dessert is fairly short and contain only whole ingredients.

    • baking apples: Choose a baking apple that retains it's structure and texture during the baking. Granny Smith apples are ideal but Honeycrisp apple, Jonagold (Jonathan), Braeburn, Fuji, Pink Lady and Golden Delicious all fare well in the oven.
    • chopped nuts: My favorite for stuffed baked apples are pecans but chopped walnuts work great too. To make these nut free, use a combination of sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds for a delicious crunchy topping.
    • shredded coconut: This is a lovely addition of healthy fats and fiber.
    • honey: feel free to use maple syrup, coconut sugar, or brown sugar but stay clear from refined sugars. Check out this post on healthy natural sweeteners.
    • coconut oil: To keep this dairy free and compliant with the paleo diet, coconut oil is a great alternative to butter. As is ghee (clarified butter - it is dairy free). But if tolerated, unsalted butter always adds fantastic flavor and richness.
    • cinnamon: A simple addition of this spice is all that's needed to make these flavors pop but you can use apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice to level up this simple dessert.
    • sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances everything well.

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    💭Pro tip: Don't skip the salt! It enhances the sweetness of the honey and cinnamon and balances all the flavors well in this healthy dessert.

    🚫Dietary Substitutions

    These simple baked apples are naturally gluten free. More than that, they are entirely grain free, making them a lovely paleo dessert the entire family will love.

    There is so much goodness in this simple yet perfect dessert that you won't miss the oats or the added sugar.

    When I make them for our family, I use pastured butter instead of coconut oil. But to keep them whole food yet plant based, stick to coconut oil instead. The shredded coconut adds some nice fiber and you can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in lieu of crunchy pecans if wanting this nut free.

    baked apple half with ice cream and salted caramel

    🍎Apple Halves vs. Whole Apples

    We love to make this recipe with apple halves rather than whole apples. The reason is we can always go for that second half if needed. But usually one baked apple half with the topping and a scoop of ice cream is more than plenty to satisfy that sweet tooth.

    The baked apple halves are also great for kiddos since the whole apples are way too much for them to begin with.

    Having said that, you can easily convert this recipe from baked apple halves to baked whole apples. All ingredient amounts will remain the same.

    To make baked whole apples, core the apples with a paring knife and a sharp spoon. Fill with the pecan crumble and proceed as with the apple halves.

    When baking whole apples, you may need to increase the baking time to 45 minutes but always check until fork tender. I would err on the side of slightly underdone rather than over baked. The pecan stuffing doesn't have anything that truly needs to be cooked (i.e. oats) therefore, you're really just baking the apples so as soon as they are tender and luscious, pull out the baked apples.

    💭Helpful Tips

    • Even cooking: Make sure your apples are of similar size for even cooking.
    • Stabilize the apples: If you're wrestling with the apples to sit well in the dish, just slice a small piece off the rounded part of the apple half to create some stability.
    • Keep pecans crunchy: In order to retain that crunch in the pecans, be sure they are coarsely chopped. Use room temperature or melted coconut oil so the crumble ingredients combine well.
    • Easily core apples: Depending on the size of your apples, you can use an ice cream scoop similar to this one to scoop out the center cores. I purchased mine at an estate sale and I love it for these jobs because the edges are very thin. A melon baller would work just as well.
    stuffed baked apples in a baking dish.

    👩🏽‍🍳Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This Paleo Baked Apples recipe calls for these ingredients: baking apples, chopped pecans or walnuts, shredded coconut, honey, coconut oil or butter, cinnamon and sea salt.

    Step 1. Prep and preheat.

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a large casserole dish with butter or coconut oil and set aside.

    Cut the apples in half and remove the core with a melon baller or sharp paring knife. tool.

    Step 2. Make the topping.

    In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans or walnuts, shredded coconut, honey, melted coconut oil or butter, cinnamon and sea salt. Toss to mix well. It will be a very thick consistency.

    Step 3. Stuff apples.

    Scoop approximately 3 tablespoons of this sweet filling on top of the apples and using hands, shape to create a dome.

    Step 4. Bake.

    Bake the apple halves for 30 minutes or until apples are tender. Take care not to over-bake as you don't want the apples mushy. The sweet stuffing will turn into a very delicious crispy topping.

    Enjoy warm with a scoop of ice cream and drizzle of caramel.

    baked apple half with ice cream and caramel drizzle

    📖Healthy Apple Crisp Variation

    A great substitute to these baked apples is to make a simple apple crisp using the same minimal ingredients.

    For a delicious paleo apple crisp, instead of using apple halves, slice them into thin wedges and spread them evenly in a baking dish. Cover with the crispy topping and bake to golden perfection.

    What you'll have is a delightfully healthy baked apple slices that can be enjoyed much the same way as these stuffed apple halves.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, scooper, melon baller, baking dish
    • Ingredients: coconut oil, organic pecans, shredded coconut, cinnamon, real salt, raw honey
    • Storage Supplies: glass snap containers for storing leftovers

    🥗Serving Suggestions

    A great way to enjoy this delicious treat is straight out of the oven, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle some homemade caramel over it.

    Check out this paleo vanilla ice cream made with coconut milk and cream! It's the perfect gluten-free dessert with subtle sweetness of the apples, crunchy pecans, and oozing and melting vanilla ice cream makes for a lovely way to enjoy the apple season.

    If so desired, you can skip the apple skin when eating. The flesh easily scoops out with the spoon and that perfect mixture of melting ice cream, luscious apple and crunchy crumble is melt-in-your-mouth good!

    baked apple with ice cream and caramel drizzle.

    💬FAQs

    What type of apple is best for baked apples?

    The best apples for baking are those that keep their structure and texture intact after spending some time in a blazing oven. In my experience, Granny Smith apples have fared very well in holding up under the heat. They also happen to have that perfect sweet-tart balance and are generally pretty versatile in most apple desserts.

    Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Braeburn, Fuji, Pink Lady, and Golden Delicious are all great baking apples.

    Looking for more healthy recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • chocolate muffins bitten
      Healthy Double Chocolate Chip Muffins
    • stack of cassava flour crepes on a plate for frozen blackberries.
      Easy Gluten-Free French Crêpes Recipe
    • Paleo Coconut Flour Banana Bread Muffins -Made with coconut flour and are dairy free, nut free, gluten and grain free. They make a delicious, perfectly moist Paleo treat or breakfast on the go. #nutfree #bananabread
      Easy Coconut Flour Banana Muffins Recipe
    • The coconut flour brownies are arranged on parchment paper.
      Coconut Flour Brownies
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    stuffed apple half with ice cream and caramel drizzle.
    Print Recipe
    4.75 from 8 votes

    Healthy Stuffed Baked Apples

    These Healthy Stuffed Baked Apples are filled with crunchy pecans, shredded coconut, and sweetened with a touch of honey for a truly nourishing, gluten-free, paleo and Whole30 apple dessert.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time30 minutes mins
    Total Time40 minutes mins
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: gluten free baked apples, healthy baked apples, paleo baked apples, stuffed apples
    Servings: 8 servings
    Calories: 260kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Ingredients

    • 4 baking apples

    For pecan crumble:

    • 1 cup chopped pecans
    • ½ cup shredded coconut
    • ¼ cup honey
    • ¼ cup coconut oil or butter melted or at room temperature
    • 3 teaspoons cinnamon
    • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a large casserole dish with butter and set aside. Cut the apples in half and remove the core with a melon baller or sharp paring knife. Spread the apples on the baking sheet the cut side up.
    • In a medium bowl, combine coarsely chopped pecans, shredded coconut, honey, coconut oil or butter, cinnamon, and sea salt. Toss to combine well.
    • Spoon 3 tablespoons of pecan crumble on the cut side of the apple halves. 
    • Bake for 30 minutes or until apples are tender.
      baked apples in baking dish
    • Serve apples warm. If desired, top with vanilla ice cream and drizzle with caramel.
      baked apple half with vanilla ice cream.

    Notes

    • Bake apples of similar size for even cooking.
    • To stabilize apples, slice the bottom of the apple half.
    • For substitutions: Use any healthy sweetener such as raw honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, or sucanat. To make this nut free, use a combination of sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
    • For variations: Use apple halves or whole apples. If baking whole apples, remove core and stuff with pecan crumble and top the apple with remaining crumble. Bake for up to 45 minutes or until fork tender. To make easy apple crisp, cut apples into small wedges and top with pecan crumble. Bake until apples are tender.
    • Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 260kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 89mg | Potassium: 181mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 59IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg

    This post was originally published November 2018 but has since been updated to include helpful information.

    Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

    pork tenderloin medallions on a white plate.

    This easy 5-ingredient Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin is fancy enough for company yet simple enough for a busy weeknight meal.

    sliced air fryer pork tenderloin with thyme

    Pork tenderloin is the unsung hero of easy dinners on a budget. It's often overlooked because pork isn't a favorite for many.

    But, I'm here to tell you that this versatile cut of pork can absolutely be tasty, healthy, easy to make, and yet radiate fancy vibes.

    Unlike pork roasts which need time to break down all that fat (like in this Instant Pot Crispy Carnitas), this air fryer pork tenderloin recipe needs very little effort for maximum results.

    With a simple 5-ingredient marinade and short cooking time, you can have this easy protein ready to pair with your favorite side dishes.

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    Ingredients

    This pork tenderloin air fryer recipe calls for 6 simple ingredients.

    pork tenderloin with simple seasonings in clear glass jars on the right.
    • pork tenderloin: Most pork tenderloin weighs between 1 and 1 ½ pounds but occasionally you may come across 2 pound packages. Because this is an air fryer recipe, go with the smaller package so it all fits in one batch.
    • extra virgin olive oil: This will create the base of our marinade.
    • balsamic vinegar: A little healthy acid will accelerate the marinating process and will produce supremely tender pork.
    • Dijon mustard: This lovely condiment adds great flavor for the marinade.
    • fresh or dried thyme: Pork and thyme just go so beautifully together. One of my favorite ways to glam up boring meat is to add fresh herbs.
    • garlic powder: For more flavor and a great addition to the pork marinade.
    • sea salt: Always use good quality unrefined salt for all your cooking.

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    Substitutions and Variations

    • pork tenderloin - This is, of course, the star of the dish but you can swap it for boneless pork chops for lovely pork medallions
    • dry rub - No time for marinade? Make a dry rub consisting of brown sugar, onion powder, chili powder, and a little sea salt.
    • other herbs - Swap thyme with your favorite herbs or even Italian seasoning. Using fresh herbs will produce a supremely herbaceous pork tenderloin medallions.
    pork tenderloin slices on white platter with fresh thyme.

    Helpful Tips for Juicy Pork

    • 🕐Avoid dry pork: In order to get juicy and moist pork is to make sure you don't overcook the meat. I like to pull it out of the oven when internal temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit and it will continue to rise with residual heat. Additionally, make sure you let the pork rest after cooking!
    • 🚫Food Safety: On the opposite side of dry pork, you want to make sure to avoid under-cooked pork. According to USDA, 145 degrees Fahrenheit is the safe internal temperature for pork muscle meat, even if there is still some pink present.
    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: Because pork has a higher fat content than other animals, it's always best to source pastured and heritage-breed pork. Wild Pastures is a great option with US raised pastured pork.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This easy pork tenderloin recipe calls for these basic ingredients: pork tenderloin, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh or dried thyme, garlic powder, and sea salt.

    marinade with balsamic vinegar, oil, and seasonings.

    Step 1. Make the marinade

    In a small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh or dried thyme, garlic powder, and sea salt.

    pork tenderloin with bowl of marinade.

    Step 2. Prepare pork tenderloin

    Pat dry pork tenderloin. Trim excess fat if necessary but remember fat adds flavor so don't overdo the trimming. Remove the thin silver film with sharp knife if present on the tenderloin.

    💭Pro tip: For most recipes, you can substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs using a 3:1 ratio. For example, for this tenderloin marinade, use 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 3 teaspoons of fresh thyme.
    pork tenderloin being covered with marinade with brush.

    Step 3. Cover pork with marinade

    Brush the marinade over pork tenderloin, making sure to coat evenly all the sides.

    pork tenderloin with marinade in glass dish.

    Step 4. Marinate

    Cover with lid or plastic wrap and marinade for 30 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.

    💭Pro tip: If marinating in the refrigerator, don't forget to allow time for the pork tenderloin to come to room temperature before roasting. 
    pork tenderloin in air fryer.

    Step 5. Cook in Air Fryer

    Don't forget to preheat the air fryer and pull out the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator before roasting! Air fry pork tenderloin for 12-15 minutes if using a toaster-oven type. For air fryer basket-types, start checking on the pork at the 10 minute mark.

    juicy pork tenderloin in baking sheet.

    Step 6. Rest the meat

    This is a very important step and must not be missed! You have to let the pork tenderloin rest at least 10 minutes. The internal temperature of the meat will continue to rise during this time and juices will remain, yielding a very juicy pork tenderloin.

    💭Pro tip: Cook times will vary depending on your air fryer. Roast the pork tenderloin until internal temperature registers at 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit. Generally, basket-type air fryers will cook about 3-5 minutes faster than toaster-oven convection air fryers.
    pork tenderloin cut into slices or medallions.

    Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: small glass mixing bowl, deep baking dish with lid, extra-large air fryer, instant read meat thermometer, chef knife, cutting board,
    • Ingredients: extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, herbs de provence, Italian seasoning, real salt
    • Storage Supplies: glass snap containers

    Serving Suggestions

    Once the meat has rested well (at least 10 minutes), cut the air fryer pork tenderloin slices and serve with your favorite side. These polenta cakes would make a great pairing!

    A hearty side of baked potato or roasted butternut squash would be wonderful or pair it with a large salad like Caesar salad or Harvest Kale Salad.

    You can also elevate this pork tenderloin by spreading some roasted garlic over it or enjoying it with a simple side dish like these Buttery Green Beans with Garlic.

    Storage and Reheating Instructions

    To store: Leftover pork tenderloin can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

    Storage containers: These glass snap containers are perfect for leftovers as they can go from refrigerator to toaster oven for reheating.

    To reheat: To reheat, gently warm on baking sheet in non-preheated toaster oven at 350 degrees until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat covered with lid. Add a few tablespoons of water or broth to create steam - that will assist in reheating.

    pork tenderloin slices with butternut squash.

    FAQs

    What cut is pork tenderloin?

    Pork tenderloin, also called pork fillet, is considered the filet mignon of pork. It usually comes as a long, narrow, boneless cut of meat that comes from the backbone muscle. It's a lean cut yet when cooked right, is tender and flavorful.

    How can I avoid drying out the pork?

    The best way to achieve moist and juicy pork is to cook it at high temperature for lowest amount of time necessary. Roast pork tenderloin in your air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove pork immediately after reaching this temperature. It's also important to allow the meat to rest after cooking to let the juices settle in the meat.

    Looking for more healthy air fryer recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • roasted zucchini on crisper tray.
      Air Fryer Squash and Zucchini
    • flat lay of jalapeno poppers with bacon
      Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
    • roasted butternut squash in white bowl.
      Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash
    • Air Fryer Duck on platter with radicchio and oranges.
      Easy Air Fryer Duck
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    pork tenderloin medallions on a white plate.
    Print Recipe
    4.25 from 4 votes

    Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

    This easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin is fancy enough for company yet simple enough for a busy weeknight meal.
    Prep Time20 minutes mins
    Cook Time12 minutes mins
    Resting Time10 minutes mins
    Total Time42 minutes mins
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: air fryer pork, air fryer pork tenderloin, pork tenderloin
    Servings: 4 servings
    Calories: 161kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • toaster oven air fryer
    • instant read meat thermometer

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound pork tenderloin
    • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
    • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
    • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 3 teaspoons fresh thyme
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt

    Instructions

    • In a small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh or dried thyme, garlic powder, and sea salt.
      ingredients of the marinade in a small bowl.
    • Pat dry pork tenderloin and trim excess fat if necessary. Brush the marinade over the pork making sure to cover all sides well. Cover and marinade for 15 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.
      brushing marinade on pork tenderloin.
    • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Air fry pork tenderloin for 12-15 minutes if using a toaster-oven type. For air fryer basket-types, start checking on the pork at the 10 minute mark.
      pork tenderloin in air fryer.
    • When internal meat temperature reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit, remove pork from air fryer and allow to rest for 10 minutes. During this time, the temperature will continue to rise from residual heat.
      pork tenderloin in baking dish.
    • Cut pork tenderloin across into 1" slices and serve warm.
      sliced air fryer pork tenderloin medallions.

    Notes

    • If marinating in the refrigerator, bring the pork tenderloin to room temperature before roasting.
    • Cook times will vary depending on your air fryer. Roast the pork tenderloin until internal temperature registers at 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit. Air Fryer basket type will cook about 3-5 minutes faster than toaster-oven convection air fryers.
    • It's important to allow the cooked pork to rest after roasting. The juices will assimilate back into the meat to yield juicy pork.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 161kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 378mg | Potassium: 463mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 2mg

    Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash

    roasted butternut squash in white bowl.

    This Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash recipe makes a wonderful side dish in 10 minutes. It works well with either fresh or frozen butternut squash and is easily roasted to perfection in the air fryer.

    butternut squash in white bowl with green parsley.

    If you're looking for a healthy side dish that doesn't require a lot of time, look no further.

    This Air Fryer Butternut Squash recipe is an easy way to enjoy winter squashes. It would also make a perfect Thanksgiving side dish, considering that it doesn't take up that precious oven space.

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    ❤Why you'll love this perfect side dish

    • Taste & texture: crispy on the outside, warm and tender on the inside - this roasted butternut squash makes for a yummy side dish.
    • Quick side dish: when we say 10 minutes of total cook time, we mean 10 minutes! Of course, this will vary depending on the type and model of your air fryer but overall, this is one of the easiest sides you'll make.
    • Level of difficulty: super easy - just toss everything together and pop it in the air fryer.
    • Picky eaters: this recipe is very flexible - season the fresh butternut squash with your favorite seasonings, making it sweet or savory (check out suggestions below)

    🍲Ingredients

    butternut squash with oil and seasonings on the side.

    These simple ingredients can be found in any grocery store.

    • butternut squash: one fresh medium butternut squash will do - you will need approximately 20 ounces or 4 cups of cubed squash
    • extra virgin olive oil: avocado oil will work too as will healthy oil spray (i.e. avocado oil cooking spray)
    • seasonings: we're doing a very basic paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder mix but feel free to omit or include others
    • sea salt: this will enhance all the other flavors

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    📖Substitutions and Variations

    There are so many ways to enjoy this hardy winter vegetable.

    • Spicy - add cayenne pepper to give it a kick
    • Fall flavors - toss with a little cinnamon and maple syrup to bring out the excitement for fall
    • Deluxe - roast with Parmesan cheese and bacon bits and top with green onions for those baked potato vibes
    • Sweet flavors - just toss with a little brown sugar to enhance that natural sweetness in the squash
    Butternut squash in white bowl with fresh parsley.

    💭Helpful Tips

    • 🕐Time Saving Tip: no shame in using store bought pre-cut butternut squash.
    • 💲 Money Saving Tip: use whatever seasonings you have on hand.
    • 🗓Make-Ahead Tip: toss with oil and seasonings in the morning for an easy side dish ready to be roasted for dinner time.
    • 🚫Food Safety: use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds in your food

    👩🏽‍🍳Step-by-Step Instructions

    The printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash recipe calls for a few simple ingredients: butternut squash, extra virgin olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt.

    cubed butternut squash and seasonings on sheet pan.

    Step 1. Cut and peel the squash. Dice butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. If using storebought cut squash, don't worry if some pieces are smaller than others. They will just cook faster.

    seasoning of paprika and garlic powder

    Step 2. Combine the dry seasonings together: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt. You may also skip this step and directly season the squash instead of in a bowl.

    💭Pro tip: To save time, buy pre-cut butternut squash. It makes this very easy side dish even easier and convenient on a busy weeknight. 
    seasoning on top of diced butternut squash

    Step 3. Add diced butternut squash to a small roasting sheet and toss with extra virgin olive oil and seasonings. If using air fryer basket, do this step in a large bowl. Spread them evenly in a single layer.

    seasoned butternut squash cubes in a sheet.

    Step 4. Roast seasoned butternut squash cubes in a pre-heated air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or until fork tender to your liking.

    💭Pro tip: If using basket-type air fryer, give the basket a quick shake halfway during cooking to ensure even browning. 
    air frying butternut squash.

    Step 5. If you want a crispy squash on the surface - broil on high for the last 3 minutes of cook time. (Depending on your air fryer, this may require another cycle of preheating the air fryer.)

    roasted butternut squash cubes on sheet.

    Step 6. Remove the roasted butternut squash from air fryer or from the basket of your air fryer. Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy.

    💭Pro tip: Cook times will vary depending on your air fryer. Roast the squash pieces to your personal preferences. Generally, basket-type air fryers will cook faster than toaster-oven convection air fryers.
    butternut squash on a sheet pan.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this easy air fryer recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl, extra-large air fryer, stainless steel baking sheet
    • Ingredients: real salt, black pepper, olive oil, avocado oil spray, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder
    • Storage Supplies: glass snap containers

    🥗What to serve with butternut squash

    This squash recipe will be a great addition to your meal during the holiday season. But it's also great to serve on busy weeknights because of how quick this comes together.

    You can't go wrong pairing this roasted butternut squash with Chicken Potato Bake or this Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise.

    💭Pro tip: Enjoy roasted butternut squash on top of a salad or in quinoa bowls. 

    ♨️Storage and Reheating Instructions

    To store: leftover squash can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

    Storage containers: these glass snap containers are perfect for leftovers

    To reheat: preheat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat on stove top; add butternut squash cubes and toast until warmed through.

    butternut squash cubes on a sheet.

    💬FAQs

    How do I peel and cut butternut squash?

    If using whole butternut squash, trim both ends of the squash using a sharp knife. Secure the squash in your non-dominant hand, and using a sharp peeler in other hand peel the butternut squash skin. Cut the squash in half (it may help to have the squash stand upright on a cutting board). Scoop out the seeds from the inside of the squash. Cut the squash crosswise in half, then into smaller sections and lastly, into cubes.

    Can I air fry frozen butternut squash?

    Yes! That's actually the easiest way to cook frozen butternut squash. However, as with all frozen foods, it will have a high water content so your end result may not be the same. During the cooking process, the squash will first have to thaw before it browns.

    How long to air fry frozen butternut squash?

    For this recipe, increase the temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and add an additional 4 minutes to your total cook time when using frozen butternut squash. If not cooked through after the additional time, pop it for a few more minutes or set to broil so it simultaneously browns and cooks.

    Looking for more healthy sides? Here are some ideas:
    • Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Bacon (Whole30, Paleo) - Make this for an easy weeknight side dish or a fancy dinner party. Either way, these Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Bacon are Whole30 and Paleo and require only 4 ingredients. #sidedish #paleo #whole30
      Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Bacon (Whole30, Paleo)
    • Whole30 green beans with bacon
      Roasted Green Beans with Bacon
    • roasted carrots on white platter.
      Roasted Carrots with Garlic
    • Brussel Sprouts roasted with bacon on white platter
      Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    roasted butternut squash in white bowl.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash

    This Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash recipe makes a wonderful side dish in 10 minutes. It works well with either fresh or frozen butternut squash and easily roasted to perfection in the air fryer.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time10 minutes mins
    Total Time15 minutes mins
    Course: Sides
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: air fryer butternut squash, air fryer side dish, butternut squash
    Servings: 4 servings
    Calories: 100kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • toaster oven air fryer

    Ingredients

    • 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes approximately 20 ounces
    • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt

    Instructions

    • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine dry seasonings together: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt.
      dried seasonings in a glass bowl.
    • Toss cubed butternut squash with extra virgin olive oil and dried seasonings. Combine to coat well. If using basket-type air fryer, do this step in a medium bowl.
      seasonings on butternut squash cubes on sheet.
    • Air fry butternut squash for 10 minutes or until cooked to your preferences. You may also broil for the last 3 minutes to get that caramelized brown surface.
      butternut squash cubes in air fryer toaster oven.
    • Remove butternut squash from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Serve warm.
      roasted butternut squash in a white bowl.

    Notes

    • For ease and convenience, use a little olive oil spray instead of the extra virgin olive oil.
    • Store bought pre-cut butternut squash works wonderfully in this recipe. Four cups will be approximately 20 ounces. (Prep time reflects pre-cut butternut squash)
    • Depending on the type of air fryer, cooking time may be different. If using a basket-type air fryer, shake or flip the squash cubes halfway through cooking.
    • To cook frozen butternut squash: increase the air fryer temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and add 4 extra minutes to your cook time.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 298mg | Potassium: 518mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 15128IU | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 71mg | Iron: 1mg

    How to Roast Buckwheat in Oven

    roasted buckwheat kasha in glass container.

    Learn how to roast buckwheat groats in the oven to make them into kasha. This buckwheat roasting method is quick and easy.

    close up of buckwheat kasha with measuring cup.

    Buckwheat is a nutritional powerhouse that originated in Eastern Europe. It's known for its lovely nutty flavor that you can't get from any other grain.

    It's naturally gluten-free and is incredibly versatile as it can be served sweet or savory, as porridge or a healthy side.

    But roasted buckwheat is different than raw buckwheat groats in both flavor and texture. It's essential to know what product you're working with because preparation will be different.

    This post is specifically on how to roast buckwheat groats in the oven. We're transforming raw buckwheat groats into toasted buckwheat kasha.

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    Why you'll love roasted buckwheat

    • Taste: boasting nutty and earthy flavor, roasted buckwheat is more intense than raw buckwheat groats
    • Texture: unlike buckwheat groats, roasted buckwheat retains it's texture and shape
    • Level of difficulty: roasting raw buckwheat groats in bulk in the oven is much simpler than over a stove top
    💭Good to Know: Buckwheat has no wheat or gluten and is a great choice for those with gluten sensitivity.
    Eden organic buckwheat groats

    What is buckwheat?

    Buckwheat is not technically a grain but rather a seed from an herb related to rhubarb. These seeds, or groats, are a staple carbohydrate food used in numerous dishes in Asia and norther climates.

    Buckwheat is used in everything from soba noodles in Japan to buckwheat flour and buckwheat pancakes in the US to blini in Russia.

    Interestingly, buckwheat can also be used to make pillows giving us that perfect night's sleep. Obviously, this seed is incredibly versatile.

    Is buckwheat healthy?

    Contrary to what the name suggests, it has no relation to wheat and is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful substitution for gluten products.

    For a grain, or seed rather, it's supremely nutrient-rich. High in fiber and packed with protein clocking in at 13 grams per serving.

    It's also rich in a whole spectrum of vitamins B, as well as lysine, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E. Its high quercetin content also makes it a superb seed for those allergy sufferers.

    Despite it's classification, buckwheat is considered a whole grain by the USDA. Whether you consider buckwheat a seed or grain, it's clearly a good choice.

    💭Did you know? Buckwheat has many health benefits. It's a good source of fiber, high in essential amino acids, and a great source of potassium.

    Difference between kasha and buckwheat groats

    buckwheat groats and kasha on white towel.

    You may have noticed that buckwheat, buckwheat groats, and kasha are used interchangeably. But it's important to know that they have very important distinctions.

    Though buckwheat is generally referred to as the culinary pseudo-grain, it's actually the flowering plant in the knot weed, sorrel, and rhubarb family. It's cultivated for it's edible seeds as well as grown as cover crop.

    Buckwheat groats are simply the hulled grain-like seeds of buckwheat plant. The outer husk is stripped away, exposing these seeds to be harvested and cooked. Groats are raw buckwheat with a slightly green or tan tint to them.

    Kasha, in English terminology, is roasted buckwheat grains. It's actually a misnomer considering that the Russian word kasha is translated as "porridge", which is the consistency of cooked buckwheat groats. Packaged kasha can be found at your local Eastern European market. But it's just as easy to roast buckwheat with a rimmed baking sheet and an oven.

    💭Helpful Tip: You may have a hard time finding raw buckwheat groats in your neighborhood grocery store. Instead, check out health food stores for this pseudo grain.

    Roasted Buckwheat Benefits

    In short, roasting brings out the rich, nutty flavor of the buckwheat. But there is also a functional reason to roast buckwheat.

    Roasting buckwheat hardens the shell of whole buckwheat grains giving more structure. As a result, the grains retain their texture and shape.

    Think of it this way: untoasted buckwheat groats gives you more porridge like product while buckwheat kasha will produce separate kernels.

    Do you see why kasha shouldn't be used to describe roasted buckwheat? It's the raw groats that makes buckwheat porridge.

    Kasha is great in any recipe that calls for long-grain fluffy white rice. And yet it also works great as a replacement for mashed potatoes. Kasha can easily be used as groats but buckwheat groats won't always work as kasha.

    buckwheat kasha in jar on white towel.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    The printable instructions are below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    It's so easy to roast buckwheat in the oven. All you need is a pound of raw buckwheat groats and a large rimmed baking sheet. This is the easiest way that garners the best results.

    buckwheat groats in a baking sheet.

    Step 1. Spread raw buckwheat groats on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. Shake to shuffle the grains halfway through the cooking.

    roasted buckwheat kasha

    Step 2. You'll notice the buckwheat will start turning from green to golden brown. After toasting, remove from oven and allow to completely cool before transferring to an airtight container.

    Storage Instructions

    buckwheat kasha in a weck jar.

    How do you store roasted buckwheat?

    Storing buckwheat is just as easy as storing any other types of grain. Transfer the completely cooled buckwheat grains into an airtight container like mason jar and store in a cool, dark, and dry place.

    It will be good for up to 6 months.

    To extend shelf life, make sure it's kept away from heat, moisture, light and air.

    Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: stainless steel baking sheet
    • Ingredients: raw buckwheat groats
    • Storage Supplies: wide-mouth mason jars, glass snap containers

    Buckwheat Serving Suggestions

    If you're ready to add buckwheat to your meal planning list - you won't regret it.

    Our favorite way to serve buckwheat is as a side dish like any other whole grains. Buckwheat is extremely versatile and can often be used to replace rice, potatoes, pasta, and more.

    It can be enjoyed as morning breakfast cereal with some warmed raw milk, unsalted butter, and a maple syrup. But if mushy buckwheat isn't your thing, a great way to add extra nutrient punch is toss some buckwheat kernels into a salad.

    Either way, it's clear that we need more buckwheat in our lives. There are so many different ways to enjoy it. And it's especially great as a regular part of a healthy gluten-free diet.

    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: Cook buckwheat in bone broth to increase nutrient content. Here's an easy Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth recipe. 

    FAQs

    What does buckwheat taste like?

    Roasted buckwheat is commonly described as having a nutty flavor much like rye or wheat. Raw buckwheat or buckwheat groats is milder in flavor and can often be eaten as porridge, similar to oatmeal. Raw or toasted, buckwheat can be served sweet as well as savory.

    Do I need to soak or sprout buckwheat groats?

    Traditionally, sprouting grain was a common practice done to increase nutrients and neutralize phytic acid found in grains. Although it's ideal to soak the buckwheat groats first before toasting them, that isn't always possible in our fast-paced life. It is a matter of personal preference and time commitment. This kasha was roasted with non-soaked buckwheat groats.

    Can you east toasted buckwheat raw?

    Raw grains, toasted or not, should not be consumed regularly. Grains, including pseudograin like buckwheat, contain substances that are irritating to the gut. These substances are neutralized during cooking.

    Looking for more healthy basics? Here are some ideas:
    • Jar with creamy mayo.
      Homemade Avocado Oil Mayonnaise
    • Freezer bags with frozen homemade hash browns on a black backdrop.
      How to Make and Freeze Hash Browns
    • chicken bone broth in white mug with carrots.
      Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth Recipe
    • golden brown croutons on white towel.
      Air Fryer Croutons
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    roasted buckwheat kasha in glass container.
    Print Recipe
    4.94 from 48 votes

    How to Roast Buckwheat in Oven

    Learn how to roast buckwheat groats in the oven to make them into kasha. This buckwheat roasting method is quick and easy.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time25 minutes mins
    Total Time30 minutes mins
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: European, Russian, Ukrainian
    Keyword: buckwheat, kasha, roasted buckwheat
    Servings: 1 pound
    Calories: 1556kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • rimmed baking sheet

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound buckwheat groats

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread buckwheat groats on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. Toast for 25 minutes, shaking to mix the kernels halfway during cooking.
      buckwheat kernels in a baking sheet.
    • Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container.
      buckwheat in a weck jar.

    Notes

    • Store roasted buckwheat in a dry and dark place for up to 6 months.
    • Recipe makes 1 pound of roasted buckwheat. Nutritional information is calculated for the entire batch of buckwheat, not per serving.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 1556kcal | Carbohydrates: 324g | Protein: 60g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 2087mg | Fiber: 45g | Calcium: 82mg | Iron: 10mg

    Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

    chicken bone broth in white mug with carrots.

    This homemade Chicken Bone Broth recipe is made in the Instant Pot in a fraction of the time. This simple recipe makes the most gelatinous and nutritious chicken broth and is wonderful as a base for soups, gravies, and other uses.

    bone broth with oregano leaves in white mug

    There's not much to homemade chicken broth. Some poultry bones, chicken feet, parsley sprigs, a carrot or two and perhaps other seasonings to bring the flavors out.

    And yet, broths have been prominently featured in traditional cultures around the world for millenia.

    Whether you're following GAPS, paleo, Whole30 or just a healthy gut diet, you should be making and consuming bone broth regularly.

    The traditional way to making bone broth has always been "low and slow".

    A long simmered broth always includes high quality animal bones and several hours to several days of cooking.

    But when time is short, the pressure cooker is a good alternative to condense 24 hour into 120 minutes. Making nutrient-dense chicken broth has become regular endeavor with little effort thanks to the Instant Pot.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Why you'll love this recipe

    • Nutrient dense: we know the benefits of bone broth are many but adding the chicken feet adds so much collagen to your broth
    • Mild flavor: using chicken (even with the feet), the broth comes out rich in nutrition but mild in flavor, making it suitable for most recipes
    • Quick broth: You can achieve the same end result using the Instant Pot in less time than if you were using a slow cooker or stove top
    • Easy recipe: Using the Instant Pot for homemade chicken broth is the best way to use this popular appliance.
    • Zero food waste: As is common in broth, use what you have: carcass from leftover roast chicken, cooked bones or raw bones, whatever vegetable scraps you have on hand.
    💭Good to Know: Working broth into your weekly homemaking rhythm is a wonderful way to let nothing go to waste while also including so much nutrition to your meals.

    Ingredients

    This is an easy way to make nutritious bone broth. It's a simple recipe that does not involve roasting the bones.

    Though the ingredient list is flexible, this is a good base to start with especially if this is your first time making bone broth.

    Chicken broth ingredients on a roasting sheet.
    • chicken carcass: This is good from a roast chicken or any leftover bones. Raw chicken backs (as pictured here) also work great. Check your local butcher for chicken backs as they are generally super cheap cuts and considered waste or discard.
    • chicken feet: These are a must, if you want a truly thick gelatinous, collagen-rich broth. They usually already come cleaned and ready to be used in soups. For maximum nutrition, find chicken feet from pastured and organic chickens.
    • kitchen scraps: These can be veggie scraps like carrot ends and random celery pieces or even onion skin (again use organic if possible). If you don't have vegetable scraps, use one whole onion (peel if not organic), a few carrots and a handful of celery ribs.
    • aromatics: These can be any fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, rosemary, parsley, and bay leaves. Go easy on the very potent herbs like rosemary and oregano as they may overpower the broth.
    • salt & pepper: This is important to a good recipe but like with herbs, go easy and adjust as needed.

    Another ingredient that didn't make the list but is important nonetheless is apple cider vinegar. Though optional, this common staple is used to draw the minerals from the bones.

    Keep reading for an FAQs on this topic below.

    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: Jewish tradition considered the use of chicken feet for bone broth to be the secret to truly nutritious broth.

    Substitutions

    Making a batch of bone broth shouldn't be difficult, time consuming, or budget restrictive.

    Traditionally, homemade chicken broth uses very simple ingredients that are readily available. The ingredients in the recipe card should be used as a general guideline rather than a hard rule.

    • bones - carcass from roasted chicken, any leftover chicken bones, other poultry bones like from legs or drumsticks, chicken necks, and cartlidge
    • veggie scraps - any vegetable trimmings such as onion skins, celery leaves, mushroom stems, carrot and parsnip peels, or the actual vegetables themselves
    • aromatics - ginger, garlic (with the skin), parsley stems, any fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano, bay leaves

    How to make gelatinous bone broth

    The collagen in the bones is what gives broth that quintessential gelatinous feature when cooled. If your broth isn't gelling - don't worry. It's still high in nutrition and good to consume.

    It just means that the ratio of collagen to water isn't proportionate. Make sure you are enough water to just cover the surface of the bones and veggie scraps. It's always better to add more bones.

    A foolproof way of getting gelatinous broth is by using chicken feet as it's incredibly rich in collagen.

    broth in white bowl with onions carrots and bay leaves.

    Chicken Feet Bone Broth

    If using chicken feet in your bone broth makes you queasy - I don't blame you. And yet this is the very thing that will yield a flavorful broth dense with gelatin.

    Chicken feet can be found at most ethnic grocery stores as well as health food stores like Whole Foods. The best place to start is to ask your meat source at the farmer's markets and farm stands.

    You may need to reserve them ahead of time. Since chicken feet aren't a popular cut of meat, most farmers won't bring it to town when cooler space is limited.

    When making broth, it's important that you source the best quality, free-range chickens for maximum nutrition. But consuming broth from conventionally grown chickens still has many benefits.

    If using conventionally grown chicken, I would skip the chicken feet and focus more on using chicken carcass and backs.

    💭Pro Tip: Look for cleaned chicken feet. These will not have a papery yellow membrane adhered to them. If they do, they need to be properly prepared first.

    Helpful Tips

    • 🗓Make-Ahead Tip: It's a good idea to have a supply of homemade chicken bone broth on hand for all the different uses. It freezes beautifully for longer storage.
    • 🚫Food Safety: Fat will rise to the top of bone broth. That is normal and it creates a seal allowing the broth to be stored for longer. But if broth won't be consumed within a week, freeze it in wide-mouth mason jars with 2 inches of headspace.
    • 💲 Money Saving Tip: The fat that rises to the surface may be used in stir-frys and soups when sauteing vegetables.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This Instant Pot chicken bone broth recipe calls for these ingredients: chicken backs or carcass, chicken feet, carrots, celery, onion, fresh thyme, bay leves, garlic, salt and pepper.

    adding all ingredients to instant pot for chicken bone broth.

    Step 1. To your inner pot of Instant Pot, add chicken bones and chicken feet, vegetable scraps, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper.

    adding water to veggie scraps.

    Step 2. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or ¼ cup of white wine and add enough water to cover all the contents.

    chicken and vegetables in water in instant pot.

    Step 3. Transfer the inner pot to the Instant Pot. Close the lid, turn the safety valve to "sealing" and set to "soup". Manually increase the time to anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes.

    cooked broth with bay leaves and carrots.

    Step 4. After the cooking cycle has been completed, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure. This will take approximately 20-30 minutes. You can use the quick release pressure if short on time but not advised.

    💭Helpful Tip: Cooking time in the Instant Pot is flexible but keep in mind that in order to achieve a rich bone broth, you need to aim closer to 90 to 120 minutes. But if short on time, you can go as low as 60 minutes.
    collecting meat and bones in colander for bone broth.

    Step 5. Once the pressure has been fully released and it is safe to do so, scoop all the solid contents out from the pot. Transfer to a colander set over a glass bowl to collect all broth.

    broth in a mason jar with fresh parsley.

    Step 6. Strain your chicken bone broth through a fine mesh sieve. You can do this directly into mason jars using a funnel and sieve. Or strain into a glass container with a spout for easy pour.

    Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this easy bone broth. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, Instant Pot pressure cooker, Instant Pot tempered glass lid, mesh strainer, large glass container with spout, funnel
    • Ingredients: real salt, black peppercorns, apple cider vinegar
    • Storage Supplies: wide-mouth mason jars, Weck juice jars with lids, portioned Souper Cubes
    overhead of chicken bone broth with oregano leaves and carrots.

    Serving Suggestions

    There are so many ways to incorporate homemade bone broth into your diet.

    Don't limit the use of bone broth to just soups. You can use it in most recipes that call for liquid, like to thin out gravies or reheat thick leftovers. You can also cook grains in bone broth to increase the nutrient profile.

    Check out this post on How to Cook Perfect Rice in Instant Pot using broth. Or swap out water for bone broth in this Instant Pot Millet recipe.

    Some great soup candidates using chicken broth recipe are this 5-minute Egg Drop Soup (perfect for breakfast), Meatball Soup, White Chicken Chili, and Hamburger Vegetable Soup.

    And lastly, there is nothing wrong with drinking it straight out of a mug.

    Storage and Freezing Instructions

    To store: The best way to store broth is in a wide-mouth mason jar but any airtight container will work. Store broth in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

    To freeze: If you won't consume broth within one week, you can freeze it. But make sure you leave at least an inch of headspace in the jars so they don't shatter in the freezer. You can also freeze them in measured out freezing trays like this 1-cup Souper Cubes and then transfer to freezer bags. This makes it super convenient when you only need small amounts like for gravies.

    broth stored in mason jars with green parsley.

    FAQs

    Is it necessary to roast bones for chicken bone broth?

    Chicken broth is generally milder than beef broth. As a result, it is not necessary to roast the chicken bones before making broth.

    Why is apple cider vinegar added to bone broth?

    The addition of something acidic like vinegar helps to draw minerals, particularly magnesium, calcium, and potassium, into the broth. It's an important ingredient in making nutrient-dense bone broth.

    What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?

    Though we are using a very small amount in the bone broth, apple cider vinegar may build flavor that people aren't fond of. An alternative to apple cider vinegar is white wine vinegar. If skipping vinegar altogether, try dry white wine. If using wine, double the amount called for vinegar to get the same acidity.

    Where is the best place to purchase high-quality chicken feet?

    The best source to purchase chicken feet is by asking your meat farmer at the farmer's market. You may need to reserve these in advance. Asking the meat butcher at stores like Sprouts and Whole foods is also a good idea. As is buying them in bulk at Azure Standard, a natural food wholesaler.

    Looking for more healthy recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • Jar with creamy mayo.
      Homemade Avocado Oil Mayonnaise
    • beef liver pate in green ramekin
      Easy Beef Liver Pâté Recipe
    • weck jar of freshly made pesto sauce
      Authentic Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
    • herbal coffee mix and mug of coffee
      Herbal Coffee (caffeine free)
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    chicken bone broth in white mug with carrots.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth

    This homemade Chicken Bone Broth recipe is made in the Instant Pot in a fraction of the time. This simple recipe makes the most gelatinous and nutritious chicken broth and is wonderful as a base for soups, gravies, and other uses.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time2 hours hrs
    Coming to Pressure/Resting Time40 minutes mins
    Total Time2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins
    Course: Soup
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: bone broth, chicken bone broth, instant pot broth, instant pot chicken bone broth
    Servings: 8 servings
    Calories: 142kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Equipment

    • Instant Pot
    • spider strainer
    • stainless steel funnel
    • wide mouth quart mason jars
    • Souper Cubes freezing trays

    Ingredients

    • 3 pounds chicken bones carcass, necks, backs, breastbones, wings
    • 1 pound chicken feet
    • 1 yellow onion
    • 2 carrots
    • 3 celery ribs
    • 6 garlic cloves
    • 3 bay leaves
    • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
    • 1 tablespoon sea salt
    • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
    • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    • 4 quarts filtered water

    Instructions

    • To your inner pot of Instant Pot, add chicken bones, chicken feet, all vegetables, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper. Add apple cider vinegar.
      vegetable scraps to inner pot of Instant Pot.
    • Add enough water to cover all contents just below the max line. Transfer the inner pot to Instant Pot. Close the lid and set safety valve to "sealing". Set to "soup" and manually increase time to 120 minutes.
      instant pot with vegetable scraps and water.
    • After cooking cycle has completed, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure (NPR). Once it is safe to do so, open the lid and remove all solid contents into a colander over a glass bowl to catch broth.
      colander with chicken bones and veggie scraps and broth on the other side.
    • Strain the chicken broth through a find mesh sieve. This may be done directly into jars or a large measuring cup.

    Notes

    • This recipe makes approximately 3 quarts of chicken bone broth. A serving size is 1-½ cups of broth.
    • Apple cider vinegar may be swapped with white wine vinegar or ¼ cup of dry white wine.
    • Any combination of chicken bones and veggie scraps will work but in order for broth to gel, you want to make sure you use more bones than water.
    • Chicken broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
    • To freeze, leave at least an inch of headspace in the wide-mouth jars and transfer to the freezer once cooled to room temperature. You can also conveniently freeze in portioned freezer ice trays like Souper Cubes and then transfer to freezer bags.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 947mg | Potassium: 124mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2656IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 1mg

    How to Cut and Cook Spaghetti Squash for Long Strands

    spaghetti squash in a ring with fork.

    Find out how to cut and cook spaghetti squash to get those long strands. It's easily roasted in the oven and is a great alternative to pasta.

    spaghetti squash on a white bowl.

    There are quite a few methods for cooking spaghetti squash, but nothing beats the traditional oven roasted method.

    Aside from the initial labor of cutting the squash, the actual cooking time is very hands-off and yet produces the best tasting al dente low carb spaghetti.

    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    ❤Why you'll love this method

    • Taste & texture: Fresh, crunchy, yet tenderly cooked, al-dente pasta but without the heavy carbs. But there is a specific way to cut and cook the spaghetti squash to get those long strands.
    • Healthy: This spaghetti squash pasta is paleo, Whole30, low carb and keto.
    • Versatile: Enjoy this with chicken, fish, steak or even eggs. Garnish with the basics like parmesan cheese and parsley or go all out and top with bolognese sauce.
    • Easy: Choose one of the 3 methods below to cutting the squash - there's something for everyone.
    spaghetti squash rings on rimmed baking sheet
    💭Good to Know: Winter squashes like spaghetti squash, acorn squash and butternut squash are a great source of vitamins A and C, which are both essential during the cooler months.

    🍲Ingredients

    This recipe has very simple ingredient list.

    • spaghetti squash: These are very popular right now and will be well into spring. Choose firm squash with no blemishes.
    • salt & pepper: basic seasoning of these staples but feel free to season with your favorites.
    • oil: I used avocado oil but good olive oil works. An avocado oil spray would be even better for ease and convenience as it covers a broader surface area.

    See recipe card for detailed instructions.

    💭Helpful Tips

    • 🕐Time Saving Tip: Cook time will vary depending on the size of your squash. The times listed in the recipe card a are a general suggestion but for quicker results, look for smaller squash.
    • 🗓Make-Ahead Tip: Spaghetti squash can be made in advance and stored in a closed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. I often make enough to last me for a few meals.
    • 🚫Food Safety: Always wash all produce, even those that you will be discarding the peel or skin. The bacteria and any pesticide residue can be transferred to the flesh of the fruit during cutting.

    🔪How to cut spaghetti squash for long strands

    cut spaghetti squash crosswise.

    The most important thing to remember about spaghetti squash is that the strands run crosswise not lengthwise.

    This means that when you cut your squash lengthwise, from stem to bottom, as is commonly instructed, you are significantly reducing their natural luscious lengths by cutting them in half.

    The best way to achieve long spaghetti-like strands is to cut the squash crosswise (between stem end and bottom).

    You can do this with raw squash or cooked, but be sure to cut it correctly for longer strands.

    How to cook spaghetti squash cut in rings

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience. It includes instructions for all three methods.

    This basic recipe calls for these ingredients: spaghetti squash, avocado or extra virgin olive oil, and salt and pepper.

    This is my favorite way to cook spaghetti squash for those pasta-like strands. It's the best method that gives you best results, in flavor and texture.

    Spaghetti squash cut into rings

    Step 1. Using a sharp chef's knife and holding tightly to the stem with no-dominant hand, cut spaghetti squash crosswise into rings 1-½" thickness. Depending on the size of squash, you should end up with 4-7 rings.

    spaghetti squash rings seasoned with oil and salt and pepper.

    Step 2. Remove the seeds and flesh and season with salt and pepper and oil. I prefer either extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil for their high smoke point. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.

    cooked spaghetti squash cut in rings.

    Step 3. Remove from oven and separate the squash strands using a fork. Discard the skin of the squash.

    spaghetti squash cut into rings.

    Step 4. Separate the spaghetti squash strands for the remaining rings and transfer to a container or serve directly in the rings.

    💭Pro Tip: Roasting spaghetti squash in the rings makes a very impressive presentation. Serve rings of flaked spaghetti squash directly on dinner plates and spoon sauce or protein on top of the squash strands.

    How to cook spaghetti squash cut in half

    This comes a close second to the rings method. Contrary to how you've been taught on the internet, it's better to cut the squash crosswise, not lengthwise to achieve the longest strands.

    spaghetti squash cut in half.

    Step 1. Cut the uncooked squash in half crosswise using a sharp knife. Remove seeds and flesh and season with salt and pepper and oil.

    halved spaghetti squash roasted on sheet.

    Step 2. Roast on rimmed baking sheet cut side down. Separate squash strands using a fork.

    How to bake whole spaghetti squash

    This method works when you are short on time and can't safely cut the squash into rings. Once the squash has been roasted, the butter cuts through effortlessly.

    The only drawback to this method is that it's hard to control how al dente the squash comes out.

    Whole spaghetti squash on sheet.

    Step 1. Prick holes throughout the squash. This will foster proper heat circulation and also allow the steam to escape.

    cutting roasted spaghetti squash in half.

    Step 2. Roast the entire squash for 50-60 minutes, flipping it over halfway during the roasting time to ensure even cooking.

    removing seeds in roasted spaghetti squash.

    Step 3. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Cut the squash in half.

    spaghetti squash cooked with towel.

    Step 4. Using a kitchen towel to secure the squash halves, remove the seeds and flesh and separate the squash into strands using a fork.

    🔪Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store but it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, stainless steel baking sheet,
    • Ingredients: real salt, black pepper, olive oil, avocado oil spray,
    • Storage Supplies: glass snap containers

    🥗What to serve with spaghetti squash

    In short, any way you would eat traditional spaghetti you can eat the squash spaghetti as well. 

    • Enjoy as a side dish with your favorite spaghetti, bolognese, or marinara sauce
    • With your favorite alfredo sauce
    • Make "Lazy" Carbonara: whisk 2 eggs together with ½ cup of parmesan cheese. Gently toss and cook over medium heat on a well-greased skillet. Top with bacon bits and fresh parsley.
    • Add a dollop of fresh basil pesto over the squash and enjoy with baked salmon or chicken. 
    • Add spaghetti squash to soups that call for pasta like this Healthy Vegetable Soup or Chicken Noodle soup
    • A simple seasoning of salt and pepper and drizzle of your favorite oil (mine is La Tourangelle Roasted Walnut Oil).
    💭Make it Nutrient-Dense: Swapping spaghetti squash for regular pasta is an easy way to bump up the nutrient profile of a meal. 

    ♨️Storage and Reheating Instructions

    To store: The easiest way to store leftovers are in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 days.

    Storage containers: These glass snap containers are perfect for leftovers

    To reheat: Heat stainless steel pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Heat squash spaghetti pasta until warmed through, turning and tossing regularly.

    spaghetti squash with fresh parsley on a white bowl.

    💬FAQs

    How do you make spaghetti squash crunchy?

    The best way to enjoy spaghetti squash is when it's still a tad crunchy or al dente. This is largely why using this method to cut and cook spaghetti squash will yield long strands. It's superior to steaming it in the pressure cooker.

    You have more success with al dente squash strands when you roast because you have more control over the cooking process. You can periodically check for doneness with a fork or knife and remove as soon as you are happy with the texture.

    Can I cook spaghetti squash in the Instant Pot?

    Spaghetti squash can be cooked in the Instant Pot, although it is not recommended for long al dente strands. Roasted spaghetti squash is unparallel to steamed squash (which is exactly what the pressure cooker does - it steams it!). It has that impeccable golden flavor that you can only obtain from indirect heat.

    Help! The spaghetti squash is still not fully cooked.

    If you prefer your spaghetti squash fully cooked instead of al dente, finish cooking on the stove top. Heat a stainless steel pan with a little olive oil and toss your spaghetti squash over medium-high heat to cook to desired doneness. You may also add your sauce of choice and coat well.

    Looking for more healthy basics? Here are some ideas:
    • Jar with creamy mayo.
      Homemade Avocado Oil Mayonnaise
    • stack of sausage patties
      Homemade Air Fryer Sausage Patties
    • roasted and peeled peppers in a jar.
      Roasted Jalapeño Peppers
    • golden brown croutons on white towel.
      Air Fryer Croutons
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    spaghetti squash in a ring with fork.
    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    How to Cut and Cook Spaghetti Squash for Long Strands

    Find out how to cut and cook spaghetti squash to get those long strands. It's easily roasted in the oven and is a great alternative to pasta.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time1 hour hr
    Resting Time15 minutes mins
    Total Time1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: roast spaghetti squash, spaghetti squash, spaghetti squash long strands
    Servings: 6 servings
    Calories: 71kcal
    Author: Anya @ Prepare & Nourish

    Ingredients

    • 1 spaghetti squash approximately 4-5 pounds
    • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil
    • salt & pepper

    Instructions

    How To Cook Spaghetti Squash Cut in Rings

    • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the squash well. Using a sharp chef's knife and sturdy cutting board, cut the squash in 1-½" rings. It helps to hold the stem with your non-dominant hand. 
      Cut spaghetti squash into rings.
    • Remove the seeds and flesh from all rings. Season the rings with salt, pepper and oil evenly and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet. 
      seasoned spaghetti squash rings.
    • Roast for approximately 30-40 minutes or until cooked to your liking. Remove from oven and allow to cool enough to handle. Separate squash into strands using a fork.
      separating squash strands from rings.

    How To Cook Spaghetti Squash Cut in Half

    • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the squash well. Using a sharp chef's knife and sturdy cutting board, cut the squash in half crosswise (not lengthwise from stem to end). It helps to hold the stem with your non-dominant hand. 
      spaghetti squash halves on cutting board.
    • Remove the seeds and flesh. Season with salt, pepper and olive oil evenly. 
      seasoned spaghetti squash halves.
    • Place the squash cut side down on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for about 40 minutes or until tender. Remove from oven and allow to cool enough to handle. Separate squash into strands using a fork. 
      roasted spaghetti squash halves.

    How to Cook Spaghetti Squash Whole

    • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash the squash well. Using a small paring knife. prick holes throughout the squash.
      whole spaghetti squash on small sheet.
    • Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for approximately 55-60 minutes or until tender to your liking. Flip the squash over halfway during the roasting time to ensure even cooking.
      roasted entire squash with hand holding by stem.
    • Remove from oven and allow to cool enough to handle. Cut in half crosswise (not lengthwise from stem to end). Remove seeds and separate the squash into strands using a fork. 
      removing seeds from cooked spaghetti squash.

    Video

    Notes

    • Cooking times will vary depending on the size of the spaghetti squash. Generally, the smaller the squash the quicker it will roast.
    • It may benefit to check for desired doneness by poking with a knife.
    • Cooked spaghetti squash will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. 
    • A serving size is approximately 1 cup of spaghetti squash. A 4-pound squash will yield approximately 5-6 cups of cooked squash. 

    Nutrition

    Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 27mg | Potassium: 174mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 193IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 0.5mg

    This post was originally published February 2019 but has since been updated to include helpful information.

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