Updated January 2026
When winter settles in, bone broth naturally makes its way back into the kitchen. It’s warm, practical, easy to make, and a great way to get more value out of quality bones from your local butcher.
Whether you’re using beef, chicken, or turkey, bone broth is one of those simple basics that fits perfectly into cold-weather cooking.
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is made by slowly simmering bones, often with joints and connective tissue, along with a few vegetables. Over time, you get a rich, flavourful broth that can be sipped on its own or used as a base for soups, stews, sauces, and grains.
Homemade bone broth is popular because it:
- Has deeper flavour than boxed broth
- Lets you control the ingredients
- Reduces food waste
- Stretches your grocery budget
Why Winter Is the Best Time to Make It
Bone broth really shines in the colder months:
- It’s comforting and warming
- You can make a large batch and freeze it
- It pairs well with slow cooking and soups
- It uses bones you may already have on hand
Many customers pick up soup bones or marrow bones this time of year, or make broth from leftover poultry.
Why Buy Bones from a Local Butcher?
Not all bones make the same broth. When you buy from a local butcher like Acme Meats, you get:
- Fresh, well-handled bones
- A better mix for flavour
- Advice on what works best for broth
If you’re unsure what to ask for, just let us know, we’re always happy to help.
Easy Turkey Bone Broth Recipe
A great example of bone broth using leftovers carcasses from the holiday season
Shop ACME’s BOGO turkey carcass sale. Do not let these carcasses go to waste. Turkey makes a mild, flavourful broth that’s easy to use in everyday cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 leftover turkey carcass (roasted for depth)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 1–2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Cold water to cover
- Salt & pepper (add at the end)
Instructions
- Break the turkey carcass into smaller pieces if needed.
- Place everything into a large pot or slow cooker.
- Cover with cold water and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer.
- Simmer:
- Stovetop: 6–8 hours
- Slow cooker: 8–12 hours
- Strain and season with salt and pepper.
Tip: If the broth gels once chilled, that’s a good sign.
How to Use Bone Broth
Bone broth is incredibly versatile:
- Sip it warm
- Use it for soups and stews
- Cook rice or grains in it
- Add depth to sauces and gravies
From Your Local Butcher
Bone broth is simple, old-school cooking that makes sense, especially in winter. Whether you’re using beef, chicken, or turkey bones, it’s an easy way to get more flavour and value from your food.
If you have questions about bones or quantities, stop by Acme Meats and ask. That’s what we’re here for.