As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, nothing feels better than cozying up with something warm and cozy. This is where chicken broth comes into the picture. Known for its rich taste and numerous health benefits, chicken broth is rich in minerals, collagen and proteins that support immunity. Also, it helps in keeping your body warm from within. It is especially popular among non-vegetarians and people who want to keep their weight under control. The best part is that it is extremely versatile so you can use it in multiple dishes to enhance its flavor. But what is it about it that makes it a winter staple? If you have these and other questions, read on to learn more about chicken broth and how you can use it in your everyday recipes!
Also read: How to make chicken broth? 5 Health Benefits of Chicken Broth
How to make chicken broth at home?
As mentioned above, chicken broth is a rich liquid that is rich in nutrients and can be used as a base in many dishes. Making chicken broth at home is very simple. You need just a few kitchen ingredients to prepare this nutritious broth.
- Start by adding the chicken pieces, roughly chopped onion, carrot, garlic, bay leaf and ginger to a pot. Add plenty of water and let it boil for 2-3 hours.
- When the chicken meat boils and the water becomes slightly cloudy, remove any foam that appears on top of it. Let the meat and vegetables cool slightly before removing them from the water. Refrigerate it and enjoy!
Photo Credit: iStock
5 Interesting Ways to Use Chicken Broth at Home
1. Make Hot Chicken Soup
Nothing brings more comfort in the winter than a warm bowl of chicken soup. – Heat some oil in a pan and add ginger and garlic and fry. Once they’re browned, add your homemade chicken broth and a little black pepper. If you want more flavor, add some vegetables, noodles, or leftover rice to create a nutritious bowl of goodness. It is perfect for boosting your immunity and warming your body on cold evenings. Want a desi twist? To spice it up, add some garam masala and chopped green chillies!
2. Cook rice or quinoa
Instead of using regular water, cook your rice and quinoa with chicken broth for an instant flavor boost. The richness of the broth will enhance the flavor of each grain, making it a delicious dish to accompany the curry. It’s a simple way to transform a basic thing into something more enjoyable and satisfying. Make sure not to add salt as the chicken broth will have its own saltiness.
3. Make delicious gravy
Believe it or not, chicken broth can be a game-changer in your main gravy. Like rice and quinoa, add broth instead of water in your butter chicken and korma curries. This will deepen the flavor and add a velvety texture to your dishes. What else? Adding this will make your gravies taste like they have been slow cooked for hours. Plus, chicken broth is rich in nutrients, making your dishes both delicious and nutritious!
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Enhance the taste of lentils
Try adding chicken broth not just to soups and gravies, but to dal and you will be surprised by its depth. Be it toor dal, moong dal, or even chana dal, chicken broth will transform it into a richer, more flavorful dish. Adding a little water to your dal in place of chicken broth will make your meal even more nutritious and immunity boosting. Add your favorite tadka along with cumin seeds, curry leaves and a little hing and you have made yourself a comforting bowl of goodness.
Also read: Broth vs. Stock: What’s the Difference and How to Use Them
5. Add it to khichdi for extra comfort
Khichdi is an evergreen comfort food but did you know that you can make it even tastier by adding chicken broth to it? Trust us, it may sound strange, but you will love the taste of this dish. The chicken broth will add a subtle richness to your khichdi and make your everyday comfort food a complete dish. Plus, it’s easy on the stomach, so perfect for days when you have digestive issues.
