Beef Broth — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 17 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 0 g | - |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 3 g | 6% |
| Sodium | 140 mg | 6.09% |
| Total Fat | 1 | 1.28% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
17
🍏 Low-Calorie Foods
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Supports joint health with collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and connective tissues.
- Rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health.
- Promotes digestive health by supporting the gut lining and aiding in digestion.
- Hydrates and nourishes, providing a comforting and nutrient-rich liquid that can support overall wellness.
Health risks
- High sodium content in many commercial beef broths, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
- Presence of additives such as MSG (monosodium glutamate) or artificial flavors, which can cause adverse reactions in some individuals.
- Potential allergen for those sensitive to ingredients like soy or gluten that might be present in commercial beef broths.
- Low nutrient density in some store-bought versions, which may not provide the same nutritional benefits as homemade beef broth.
How to choose beef broth
Good beef broth should list beef and vegetables as primary ingredients, avoiding artificial flavors and excess sodium. The broth ought to have a rich, deep color and robust aroma, indicating a well-simmered stock.
Reject broths that are overly salty or laden with artificial flavor enhancers. Light or thin broths generally lack flavor depth and are not recommended.
How to store beef broth
Beef broth should be refrigerated after opening and consumed within a few days. Unopened cans or cartons can be stored in a cool, dry area such as a pantry for up to 1-2 years. For longer preservation, freezing is a viable option, typically lasting up to 2-3 months.
Allowing beef broth to sit at room temperature after opening can result in spoilage. Avoid using metal containers for storage after opening, as this may alter the taste. Always utilize clean utensils to prevent the introduction of bacteria into the broth.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Beef broth, if unopened, can last for 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 4-5 days. For extended storage, beef broth can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover beef broth is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many recipes. Use it as a base for soups and stews, where it adds a rich, savory flavor. It’s also great for cooking grains like rice, quinoa, or barley, infusing them with depth and richness.
Beef broth can be used to make a flavorful sauce or gravy for meats, or added to braising liquids for slow-cooked dishes. You can also use it to deglaze pans after searing meats, capturing all the flavorful bits stuck to the pan. If you have a lot of beef broth, consider freezing it in portions to use later or reducing it to make a concentrated beef stock. Beef broth can also be sipped on its own as a warm, nourishing drink, especially during cold weather.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How beef broth supports specific health conditions
Beef broth is a nutrient-dense liquid that supports joint health due to its collagen content, which helps maintain cartilage and reduces joint pain. It also promotes digestive health by aiding in the repair of the gut lining, making it beneficial for those with digestive issues. Additionally, beef broth contains essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, supporting bone health and overall immune function.
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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