The advantage of this animal-product is its unique nutrition from the marrow, which is known in China to promote growth and development. Such a broth from broken bones and vegetables is called "longevity soup." Historical precedents for this practice exist in most other traditional cultures as well, including Native America, where children were given bones to suck out the marrow. People who are vegetarian for ethical reasons may see this as not directly involved in taking animal life, since bones can be obtained that would otherwise be discarded. A word of caution: Avoid animals raised where lead has deposited from auto exhausts or other sources over the years, since lead collects in the bones and marrow of animals. Today more than ever, it is important to know about the sources of the food you give your children. One of the vital nutrients in marrow is the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, which is required for the development of the brain, eyes, and other organs in infants.
Ingredients:
Steps:
- Using bones from an organically raised animal (like the leftover turkey bones), break the bones and cook them just below boiling for eighteen hours in broth or water (a crockpot on "hi" will work). Add water as necessary. Root vegetables may be added. Vegetables such as carrots, celery, squash, and beets help to extract minerals and other nutrients from the bones and their marrows into the broth. A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice will do the same. When cooked, remove the bones and use this broth alone, or as a liquid base for other foods.
- Variation (shorter in time): First, boil the broken or cut bone (to which some meat is attached) with a piece of kombu seaweed for about 7-8 hours. Then, add some seasonal veggies and boil everything for about 1 to 1-1/2 hours with a 1-2 teaspoons of Celtic salt and organic herbs).