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Beef Stock

This classic homemade beef stock is a fundamental building block for any kitchen, offering a depth of flavour that shop-bought versions simply cannot match. By slowly simmering meaty bones with aromatic vegetables and herbs, you create a rich, savoury liquid that forms the perfect base for nourishing soups, stews, and sauces. The secret lies in browning the bones thoroughly, which provides that characteristic dark colour and intense umami profile.

As a diabetes-friendly option, this recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and controlled seasoning, making it a heart-healthy choice for those monitoring their salt and sugar intake. It is an excellent way to add body and richness to meals without relying on processed additives. Once prepared, this versatile stock can be portioned and frozen, ensuring you always have a nutritious foundation ready for your next home-cooked dinner.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Beef Stock

  • 60ml olive or vegetable oil

  • 1.8kg meaty beef bones, such as ribs, shin, neck, or tail

  • 3850ml cold water

  • 1 onion, peeled and quartered

  • 1 carrot, peeled

  • 1 rib celery

  • 2 large cloves garlic, crushed

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

How to make Beef Stock

  1. In a 10-quart pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat and cook beef bones, in 2 batches if necessary, until very deeply browned on all sides, including the meaty edges of ribs, for 6 to 8 minutes per side. Reduce the heat if they threaten to burn. Remove the beef to a plate and pour off the oil in the pot.

  2. Return the pot to medium-high heat and add the water, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Return the beef bones, and any accumulated juices, and bring to a simmer. As it comes to a simmer, skim off any impurities that rise to the surface with a ladle or large spoon.

  3. Add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and salt. Cook uncovered, at the barest possible simmer, with just a few bubbles breaking the surface, stirring occasionally, for 2 1/2 hours.

  4. Remove from the heat and let the stock rest for 15 minutes. Strain stock through a large fine-mesh strainer or a colander double-lined with damp cheesecloth into a large bowl.

  5. Fill a larger bowl or the sink with ice and water and nest the bowl of stock in it. Stir regularly until the stock has cooled.

  6. Transfer the cooled stock to airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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