**Equipment:**
* Large stock pot or slow cooker
* Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
* Ice cube trays or silicone molds
* Freezer-safe container or bag for storage
### How to Make Homemade Broth Cubes
**1. Build Your Broth Base**
In a large pot, combine your chopped vegetables, herbs, and optional bones. Cover with water and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook low and slow for at least 2 hours (up to 24 hours if using bones for a rich stock).
**2. Strain and Reduce**
Once your broth is done, strain out all solids using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Return the liquid to the pot and simmer again until it reduces by about half. This concentrates the flavor, making your broth cubes more powerful in smaller portions.
**3. Cool and Portion**
Let the reduced broth cool slightly, then pour it into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Freeze until solid (usually overnight).
**4. Store for Later Use**
Once frozen, pop the cubes out and store them in a labeled freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll last up to 3–4 months in the freezer.
### How to Use Homemade Broth Cubes
Each cube is typically about 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of concentrated broth. You can:
* Add them directly to soups, stews, and sauces
* Use them to cook rice, grains, or pasta
* Melt into sautéed veggies for extra flavor
* Dissolve in hot water for a quick, comforting cup of broth
You can also adjust the strength by combining multiple cubes or diluting with water, depending on the recipe.
### Customize Your Flavor
One of the best parts of homemade broth cubes is how customizable they are:
* **Vegetarian/Vegan?** Stick to vegetables, seaweed (like kombu), and mushrooms for a deep umami base.
* **Love spice?** Add chili flakes, ginger, or turmeric for a kick.
* **Seasonal twist?** Toss in leftover herbs from the garden or Thanksgiving trimmings for seasonal flavors.
### Final Thoughts
Homemade broth cubes are one of those small kitchen upgrades that pay off in a big way. They’re cost-effective, healthy, and incredibly versatile — and they taste far better than anything you’ll find on a supermarket shelf. Whether you’re simmering a quick soup or layering flavor into a weeknight dish, these all-natural cubes will quickly become your secret ingredient.
