Slow-Simmered Chicken Feet Broth Recipe
Made from simple ingredients, slow-simmered chicken foot broth is a sumptuous, healing dish that is rich in collagen and incredibly nourishing. Because of their high gelatin content, which promotes joint health, skin suppleness, and stomach healing, chicken feet—which are sometimes disregarded in contemporary kitchens—are highly valued in traditional cuisines. They provide a silky broth with a rich texture and subtle depth of flavor when gently simmered with aromatic herbs, vegetables, and spices.
This recipe honors the wisdom of slow cooking and whole-animal use, turning a simple ingredient into a wellness powerhouse. The broth is ideal for sipping on its own, using as a base for soups and stews, or incorporating into daily meals for added nutrition. It’s especially beneficial during recovery, cold seasons, or periods of stress when the body craves warmth and repair.
INGREDIENTS:
1 kg fresh chicken feet (cleaned and trimmed)
1 large onion (quartered)
2 carrots (chopped)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
4 garlic cloves (smashed)
1-inch piece fresh ginger (sliced)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals)
3 liters water
Salt to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, coriander, or dill)
INSTRUCTION: Step-by-Step Preparation:
Clean the Chicken Feet: Rinse thoroughly under cold water. Trim off nails using kitchen shears. You can blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then rinse again to remove impurities.
Prepare the Aromatics: Roughly chop onion, carrots, and celery. Smash garlic and slice ginger. These ingredients will infuse the broth with flavor and nutrients.
Simmer the Broth: In a large stockpot, add chicken feet, vegetables, garlic, ginger, bay leaf, peppercorns, and vinegar. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
Skim & Reduce Heat: Once boiling, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. Reduce heat to low and cover partially. Simmer gently for 4–6 hours.
Strain & Season: After simmering, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve. Discard solids or save the feet for a secondary dish. Season with salt to taste.
Cool & Store: Let broth cool. Store in glass jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage. The broth will gel when chilled—this is a sign of high collagen content.
Serve: Reheat gently and sip as a warm tonic. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon. Use as a base for soups, risottos, or sauces.
SERVINGS: Yields approximately 2.5 liters of broth Serving size: 1 cup per person Makes 8–10 servings
NOTE: This broth is naturally rich in collagen, which supports joint, skin, and gut health. It’s ideal for those recovering from illness, managing arthritis, or seeking anti-aging benefits. The apple cider vinegar helps extract minerals from the bones and connective tissue.
Avoid boiling too vigorously, as this can cloud the broth. For a clear version, strain twice and avoid stirring during simmering. You can add turmeric, lemongrass, or dried mushrooms for additional depth and therapeutic value.
DAY-BY-DAY BENEFITS OF DRINKING CHICKEN FEET BROTH:
Day 1–2: Hydration & Gut Soothing The gelatin coats the digestive tract, easing inflammation and promoting smoother digestion. You may feel less bloated and more satiated.
Day 3–4: Joint Lubrication & Skin Softening Collagen begins supporting joint flexibility and skin elasticity. Dry skin may feel more hydrated, and stiffness may reduce.
Day 5–6: Immune Support & Energy Boost Minerals like zinc and magnesium support immune function. The warmth and nutrients help combat fatigue and stress.
Day 7: Overall Vitality & Recovery By the end of the week, your body feels more balanced, resilient, and nourished. The broth becomes a comforting ritual of self-care.
OTHER RECIPES USING CHICKEN FEET:
1. Spicy Braised Chicken Feet (Asian Style)
Simmer cleaned feet in soy sauce, garlic, chili, and star anise
Cook until tender and sticky
Serve as a snack or side dish
2. Chicken Feet Adobo
Braise feet in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaf
Simmer until tender and flavorful
Serve with rice
3. Chicken Feet Soup with Vegetables
Add chopped carrots, potatoes, and greens to the broth
Simmer until vegetables are tender
A hearty, nourishing meal
4. Herbal Chicken Feet Stew
Simmer feet with Chinese herbs like goji berries, astragalus, and red dates
A traditional tonic for vitality and longevity
5. Crispy Fried Chicken Feet
Boil and marinate feet
Deep fry until golden and crisp
Serve with dipping sauce
WHY THIS RECIPE IS EFFECTIVE Collagen, gelatin, and trace minerals are abundant in chicken feet. These nutrients are extracted by slow boiling without disrupting their structure. While vinegar improves mineral release, aromatics offer taste and medicinal value. The end product is a smooth, golden soup that supports several systems and provides profound nourishment.
This recipe is supported by science and has a long history. It’s affordable, sustainable, and incredibly fulfilling. It turns a common element into an opulent tonic for well-being.