Onion Skin Broth

Onion skins are often discarded without a second thought, but they can actually be a valuable ingredient in the kitchen. Here’s a unique recipe that utilizes onion skins to make a flavorful and nutritious broth. Once you try this, you’ll never want to throw them away again!

Ingredients:

• Skins from 2-3 large onions (yellow, white, or red)
• 1 carrot, roughly chopped
• 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• A few sprigs of fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, or rosemary)
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 8 cups water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onion Skins:
   • Collect the outer skins of onions as you use them in other recipes. Make sure they are clean and free from mold or decay. You can store them in a container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the broth.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large pot, add the onion skins, chopped carrot, celery, garlic, bay leaf, fresh herbs, and black peppercorns.
3. Add Water:
   • Pour in 8 cups of water, or enough to cover the ingredients by a couple of inches.
4. Bring to a Boil:
   • Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer:
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for about 30-45 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more flavor it will develop.
6. Strain the Broth:
   • After simmering, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot or large bowl. Discard the solids (though you might want to compost them!).
7. Season and Store:
   • Taste the broth and add salt as needed. Let the broth cool, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Uses:

• Use this onion skin broth as a base for soups, stews, risottos, or gravies. It adds a rich, savory depth of flavor and a beautiful golden color to dishes.

Tip:

• Onion skins are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, making this broth not only delicious but also nutritious!

You’ll be amazed at how much flavor those humble onion skins can impart. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself saving onion skins every time you cook!