Are you ready to unlock the secret to a warm, comforting bowl of homemade "Bouillon de Poulet en Conserves"? This French classic is not only a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire but also a versatile base for countless recipes. Imagine the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen as you simmer a whole chicken with fresh vegetables, creating a broth that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to elevate your soups, sauces, or simply enjoy a soothing cup of broth, this recipe promises to deliver. Join us on this flavorful journey, and discover how easy it is to make your own canned chicken bouillon that can be stored and savored anytime!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 bay leaf
- 10 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any residual blood and ensures a clean flavor.
- Chop the carrots into large chunks, quarter the onion, and chop the celery stalks into similar-sized pieces. Crush the garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife to release their flavor.
- In a large stockpot, add the whole chicken along with the chopped carrots, quartered onion, chopped celery, crushed garlic, and bay leaf.
- Pour in 10 cups of cold water, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged. If necessary, add a bit more water to cover everything.
- Place the stockpot on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface with a ladle. This step is crucial for achieving a clear broth.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid, allowing the broth to simmer gently. Let it cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This slow cooking process will extract maximum flavor from the chicken and vegetables.
- After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a cutting board to cool slightly. Reserve the broth in the pot.
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. You can set aside the shredded chicken for use in other dishes or add it back into the broth for a hearty soup.
- Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference. Remember that the flavors will concentrate as the broth cools.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another large pot or bowl to remove the vegetables and any remaining solids. This will give you a clear and flavorful bouillon.
- Allow the bouillon to cool, then transfer it to sterilized jars if you plan to can it. Leave some headspace at the top of each jar. Seal the jars tightly and process them in a boiling water bath for proper preservation.
- Store the canned bouillon in a cool, dark place. It can be used as a base for soups, sauces, or enjoyed on its own as a comforting broth.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for a high-quality, whole chicken for the best flavor. Organic or free-range chickens will yield a richer broth.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables in advance. This way, you can focus on the cooking process without interruptions.
- Skim the Foam: Don’t skip the skimming step! Removing impurities will ensure a clear and clean-tasting broth.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: When seasoning your broth, start with a little salt and pepper. You can always add more later, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty broth.
- Strain Well: For a perfectly clear bouillon, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, ensuring no solid bits remain.
- Canning Tips: If you plan to can your bouillon, make sure your jars are sterilized and leave enough headspace to allow for expansion during processing.
- Versatile Uses: Don’t hesitate to use your bouillon in a variety of dishes, from risottos to sauces. It’s a fantastic way to add depth to any meal!
- Storage: Store your canned bouillon in a cool, dark place, and it will be ready for use whenever you need a comforting boost in your cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
