Turkey Bone Broth: Eat Nose to Tail This Thanksgiving

If we’re going to take a life to eat and be nourished, I think we owe it to the animal to make the absolute most use of it that we can. In a country where 46 million turkeys are killed each Thanksgiving and 40% of food is wasted throughout the year, thrown in the trash, and on a planet with an ever expanding human population, a proper Food Culture is one where we eat nose to tail and waste as little as possible.

Many people simply toss the carcass but even cooked turkey bones retain important nutrients that your body needs. Simply throw it in a pot and simmer for 24 hours or more to extract the delicious flavor and deep nourishment.

Turkey Bone Broth Recipe

1. Place turkey carcass including bones, connective tissue, (and scraps of meat and fat as desired) into a large pot or slow cooker.

2. Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional) to assist break down of collagen and connective tissue. Adjust amount depending on size of carcass and stock pot.

3. Bring to boil

4. Reduce heat and simmer for 24-48 hours.

5. Strain and discard bones.

6. Enjoy as a simple bone broth or use the broth for a more complex soup, risotto, or other dish that calls for broth. Can be frozen in smaller portions to use throughout the year.

This elixir is a powerhouse of nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Let's delve into the rich nutritional profile of turkey bone broth, exploring its diverse array of essential components and the remarkable health benefits they offer.

1. Collagen and Gelatin: Building Blocks for Connective Tissues

   • Collagen and gelatin are abundant in turkey bone broth, providing the essential building blocks for skin, hair, nails, the digestive system, and connective tissues.

   • Supportive of joint health, collagen and gelatin may alleviate joint pain and promote flexibility.

2. Magnesium: The Mighty Mineral

   • Turkey bone broth is a notable source of magnesium, a mineral crucial for muscle and nerve function, energy production, and bone health.

   • Adequate magnesium intake may contribute to improved sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced cardiovascular health.

3. Vitamin A: Vision and Immune Support

   • A rich source of vitamin A, turkey bone broth supports vision, immune function, and skin health.

   • Vitamin A's antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage and maintain healthy mucous membranes.

4. Vitamin K2: Bone and Heart Health

   • Vitamin K2 is essential for bone metabolism and may contribute to cardiovascular health by assisting in calcium regulation.

   • Turkey bone broth provides a natural source of this vitamin, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular issues.

5. Minerals: Zinc, Iron, Boron, Manganese, Calcium, Phosphorus, and Selenium

   • Zinc and iron play crucial roles in immune function, wound healing, and oxygen transport.

   • Boron is important for bone health and may contribute to improved cognitive function.

   • Manganese supports connective tissue formation and antioxidant defense.

   • Calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone health.

   • Selenium is a potent antioxidant, aiding in thyroid function and protecting against oxidative stress.

6. Marrow

   Bone marrow provides vitamins A, B2, B12, and E, plus omega-3s, omega-6s, and minerals like calcium, iron, selenium, and zinc.

7. Connective tissue

   Connective tissue including ligaments and tendons from the carcass add glucosamine and chondroitin to your both, which are important for her digestive and cardiovascular systems as well as to support joint health..

8. Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Balance for Inflammation, Hormones and Brain Health

   • Turkey bone broth contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contributing to hormone regulation, brain function, digestive function, heart health, and inflammation regulation. Please note that it is common for people to consume too much omega-6 relative to omega-3 in the standard American diet. Turkey broth has both but the ratio will vary depending on what the turkey ate. Consider your entire diet when balancing these important nutrients.

Conclusion

Incorporating turkey bone broth into your diet can be a delicious and nutritious way to support your health while enjoying the delicious, decadent treat. From collagen and gelatin for joint health to a myriad of vitamins and minerals promoting overall well-being, this hearty elixir stands out as a nutrient-dense addition to your culinary repertoire. So, as you sip on that comforting cup of turkey bone broth, know that you're not just enjoying a tasty beverage – you're nourishing your body from the inside out while reducing food waste and saving money. Using the turkey carcass to make bone broth is good for both People + Planet.