Beef Broth
Beef broth is a flavorful liquid that is all things beefy goodness in liquid form. You can be sip on its own, but it most often used in other dishes. Think things like gravy, soups, sauces, and more.
This might be crazy to believe, but we have been eating beef since prehistoric times and it’s no wonder. It is a fantastic source of protein and nutrients.
Beef can also be used to make other ingredients like beef broth. Technically speaking, this type of broth is made from simmering any cut of beef in water with some veggies and possibly some herbs and the like.
Beef broth is sold in many ways. The most common is the box or can. I like to use these when I am in a hurry. Keep a few stashed in the pantry and you are good as gold when you are in a hurry.
You can also find it as a paste in a small jar. This is all the rage now with the kids. It is small, compact, and body flavor. Add a teaspoon of it to hot water, stir, and voila, you have broth!
Last but not least, you can buy it in cube form. Bouillon cubes are the dehydrated, super punch of beefy goodness that comes in a box. They are shelf-stable and compact which makes them another pantry staple I almost always have on hand.
Here are some delicious recipes using beef broth:
- Easy Stovetop Cube Steak with Gravy
- Mushroom Sauce for Steak
- Beef Goulash
- Apple French Onion Soup
- Red Wine Beef Stew
Are beef broth, bouillon, beef stock, and bone broth all the same thing?
Let’s get this thing straight once and for all. These words are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are differences between them and it’s good to know what you are working with.
Bouillon and beef broth are essentially one and the same. They are a clear broth made by simmering meat, vegetables, and aromatics in water. When or if you pop this in the fridge, it will stay liquid.
They are not the same as beef stock or bone broth.
Beef stock and bone broth are also one and the same. They are more intense than the broth. When you make it, you are using beef bones to flavor your liquid. The result is a much more fatty and thick liquid. This will turn into a solid in the fridge.
If a recipe asks for beef broth and all you have is stock or bone broth, fret not. You can use the latter, just tone it back a bit as it will be a bit more intense in terms of fat. Adding a touch of water never hurts either.
Can you drink beef broth?
Yep, sure can! It is flavorful and delicious and sometimes perfect on a cold day.
What can be used instead of beef broth?
If you don’t have any it lying around, I think the best substitute is vegetable broth. This is sold in the same forms you will find the beef variety in. And while it is nowhere near as flavor-forward, it will still help keep your dish tasting delicious.
