As a home cook who loves making soups and stews I rely heavily on having a good beef broth handy to use as a flavorful cooking liquid. But I don’t always have the time to simmer beef bones for hours to make homemade stock. That’s where bouillon powder comes in!
Bouillon powder is an easy shortcut ingredient that allows you to whip up beef broth in minutes. In this article, I’ll provide a step-by-step guide to making simple yet delicious beef broth using bouillon powder.
What is Bouillon Powder?
First, let’s quickly go over what exactly bouillon powder is. Bouillon powder, also sometimes called broth powder, is a concentrated blend of beef flavorings like salt, spices, yeast extract, dried veggies, and beef fat. It comes in a powder or granule form.
Popular brands of bouillon powder include Better Than Bouillon, Knorr, and Maggi You can find bouillon powder in the soup aisle at most grocery stores It has a long shelf life when stored in a cool, dry place.
The main benefit of bouillon powder is convenience – you can quickly dissolve it in hot water to make an instant flavorful broth without lengthy cooking. Let’s see how it’s done!
Ingredients Needed
To make about 4 cups of beef broth with bouillon powder, you will need:
- 4 cups water
- 4 teaspoons bouillon powder (or 4 bouillon cubes)
- Additional seasonings (optional) – pepper, garlic powder, thyme
That’s it! The bouillon powder provides the beefy flavor on its own, but you can jazz it up with extra spices. Now let’s get cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for making beef broth with bouillon powder:
Step 1 – Heat the Water
Add 4 cups of water to a medium pot and bring to a boil over high heat. You can use tap water, but filtered or spring water may result in a clearer, cleaner tasting broth.
Step 2 – Add the Bouillon Powder
Once the water is boiling rapidly, remove the pot from heat. This prevents the bouillon granules from clumping up. Stir in 4 teaspoons (or 4 cubes) of beef bouillon powder until completely dissolved.
If needed, return the pot to low heat for 30 seconds to help melt any remaining granules. But do not boil the broth anymore.
Step 3 – Simmer and Season (Optional)
Reduce heat to low or medium-low to gently simmer the broth for 5-10 minutes. This helps infuse the beef flavor through the liquid. If desired, add any extra seasoning like cracked black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, a bay leaf, etc.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You want a rich, savory beefy taste. Be careful not to boil the broth too long or it may start tasting salty and bitter.
Step 4 – Cool and Store
Remove the broth from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze broth in bags or containers for 2-3 months.
And your beef broth made with bouillon powder is ready! That was easy, right?
Now let’s go over some tips and FAQs for making the most delicious beef broth using this handy shortcut ingredient.
Tips and Tricks
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Use good quality beef bouillon powder for the best flavor. Maggi and Better Than Bouillon are two great options.
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Start with hot water instead of cold to help bouillon dissolve faster. But don’t boil once added.
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Add a few peppercorns, allspice berries, thyme sprigs, or bay leaves to infuse more flavor.
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For a clearer broth, let cool completely then strain through a fine mesh sieve before using.
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For richer flavor, roast beef or veal bones first before making broth with bouillon.
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Substitute chicken bouillon powder to make chicken broth using the same method.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much bouillon powder do I use per cup of water?
As a general rule, use 1 teaspoon of bouillon powder per 1 cup of water. Bouillon cubes are about 4 times more concentrated, so use 1 cube per 4 cups water.
Is bouillon powder gluten free?
Many major brands of bouillon powder are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure. Maggi and Better Than Bouillon both make gluten-free options.
Can I use bouillon broth in place of stock?
Absolutely! Bouillon broth can substitute for beef or chicken stock in any recipe. Just keep in mind it has a more concentrated, salty flavor.
How long does broth made with bouillon powder last?
Properly stored in the fridge, broth made with bouillon powder will last 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for 2-3 months.
Is bouillon healthier than broth or stock?
While convenient, bouillon powder is more processed and contains added salt and flavor enhancers. Homemade bone broth is healthier. But bouillon is a good option when time is limited. Moderation is key.
Recipe Ideas and Uses for Bouillon Broth
Now that you know how to easily whip up beef broth with bouillon powder, let’s look at some of the many ways you can use it:
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Base for beef stew, chili, soups, and casseroles
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To cook grains like rice, quinoa, and barley
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Adding to pan sauces and gravies for extra flavor
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Use in place of water when cooking dried beans or lentils
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For cooking tougher, cheaper cuts of beef to make them tender
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As a hot drink to soothe cold/flu symptoms
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Reducing down to make an ultra-concentrated glace de viande
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Cooking greens like kale, spinach, or collard greens
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Making a quick pho or ramen broth
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Adding to pasta sauce for a meaty flavor boost
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Poaching fish fillets or chicken breasts
As you can see, the possibilities are endless! Beef broth made with bouillon powder adds instant savory flavor to all kinds of dishes.
Final Thoughts
The ease and convenience of bouillon powder makes it a winner on busy weeknights. But try to also make homemade bone broth when you have the time for maximum flavor and health benefits.
