Discover the heartwarming essence of Italian cuisine with our delightful "Basic Broth Brodo di Carne Mista." This rich and flavorful broth is not just a recipe; it's an invitation to savor the comforting warmth that only a homemade broth can provide. With a medley of mixed meats and fresh vegetables simmered to perfection, this dish will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas that beckon you to gather around the table. Whether you’re using it as a base for soups or enjoying it on its own, this broth is sure to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Ready to unlock the secrets of this classic Italian comfort food? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb mixed meats (beef, chicken, pork)
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 10 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, bay leaf)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the carrots, celery, and quarter the onion. Smash the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
- In a large stockpot, combine the mixed meats (beef, chicken, and pork) with the chopped vegetables: carrots, celery, onion, and smashed garlic.
- Add 10 cups of water to the pot, ensuring that the ingredients are fully submerged. If needed, adjust the amount of water to cover the meats and vegetables.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that you can adjust the seasoning later, so it’s best to start with a small amount.
- Introduce fresh herbs to the pot. Add a few sprigs of parsley and thyme, along with a bay leaf. These herbs will infuse the broth with a rich flavor as it cooks.
- Place the stockpot on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to ensure that nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- Once the broth reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot partially with a lid, allowing steam to escape while still keeping the flavors concentrated.
- Let the broth simmer for about 2 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the meats will become tender.
- Occasionally check the broth, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This will help keep your broth clear and improve its flavor.
- After 2 hours, check the tenderness of the meats. They should be cooked through and easily shred with a fork. If they are not tender yet, continue to simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes.
- Once the meats are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or another pot, discarding the solids (meats and vegetables).
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. If desired, you can shred the cooked meats and return them to the broth for added texture.
- Let the broth cool slightly before storing. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage. Use it as a base for soups, stews, or risottos, or enjoy it as a warm, nourishing drink.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meats: For a richer flavor, opt for high-quality, grass-fed meats. A mix of beef, chicken, and pork will yield the best results, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
- Prep Ahead: Take the time to chop your vegetables and smash the garlic in advance. This will streamline your cooking process and help you focus on achieving the perfect simmer.
- Skim the Foam: During the simmering process, be sure to skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This step is crucial for a clear and flavorful broth.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, and adjust as needed after cooking. This way, you can control the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients.
- Let It Simmer: Patience is key! Allow the broth to simmer gently for the full 2 hours (or longer if necessary) to develop a deep, rich flavor.
- Strain Carefully: When straining the broth, use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to ensure a smooth, clear liquid. Discard the solids, or shred the meats and return them to the broth for added texture.
- Storage Tips: Let the broth cool completely before storing. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen in portions for future use. Perfect for quick meals on busy nights!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 145kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
