Soups & Stews > Broth-Based Soups > Clear Broths > Consommé Recipe (Clarified Broth)

Classic Chicken Consommé

A crystal-clear and intensely flavorful chicken consommé, perfect as a sophisticated starter or a base for other soups and sauces. This recipe uses a classic clarification technique to remove impurities and create a refined broth.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
4-6 hours for broth, 2 hours for clarification
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 Chicken Carcasses
  • 1 lb Chicken Wings
  • 2 stalks, roughly chopped Celery
  • 2 medium, roughly chopped Carrots
  • 1 large, quartered Onion
  • 1 large, white part only, roughly chopped Leek
  • 1 bunch Parsley Stems
  • 4 sprigs Thyme
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 10 Black Peppercorns
  • 3 large Egg Whites
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
  • 8 cups Ice Water
  • 1/4 cup Dry Sherry (optional)

Making the Chicken Broth

In a large stockpot, combine the chicken carcasses, chicken wings, celery, carrots, onion, leek, parsley stems, thyme, bay leaf, and peppercorns. Cover with 12-16 cups of cold water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and gently simmer for at least 4 hours, or up to 6 hours. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface periodically. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.

Straining the Broth

After simmering, carefully strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth. Discard the solids. Let the broth cool slightly, then refrigerate overnight. This will allow any fat to solidify on the surface, making it easier to remove.

Removing Fat From the Broth

Once the broth is thoroughly chilled, remove the solidified fat from the surface with a spoon. This step is crucial for a clear consommé.

Preparing the Clarification Raft

In a large bowl, combine the egg whites, ground chicken, and tomato paste. Whisk together until well combined. Gradually whisk in the chilled, defatted chicken broth. This mixture is called the 'raft'.

Clarifying the Consommé

Pour the raft mixture into a clean stockpot. Place the pot over medium-low heat. Gently stir the mixture occasionally until a raft forms on the surface. This will take about 30-45 minutes. Be careful not to boil the consommé, as this will break the raft and cloud the broth.

Creating the Raft

As the raft forms, it will trap impurities and clarify the broth underneath. A 'chimney' (a small hole) should form in the raft, allowing steam to escape. If a chimney doesn't form naturally, gently create one with a spoon.

Straining the Consommé

Once the raft has fully formed and the consommé is clear, carefully ladle the consommé from underneath the raft through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth. Avoid disturbing the raft as much as possible.

Adjusting the Seasoning

Taste the consommé and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, stir in the dry sherry for added depth of flavor.

Serving the Consommé

Serve the consommé hot in warmed bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: Nutrition information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.
Calories: 25
Protein: 3g
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sodium: 100mg

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Consommé is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option. It's also a good source of collagen from the bones. Pay attention to sodium content if you are on a low-sodium diet; using homemade broth with no added salt will greatly reduce the sodium level.

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FAQ

  • Why is it important to use cold water when making the broth?

    Starting with cold water allows the flavors of the ingredients to gradually infuse into the water, resulting in a richer and more flavorful broth.
  • Can I use a different type of meat for the consommé?

    Yes, you can use beef, veal, or even duck to make a consommé. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • How long can I store the consommé?

    The consommé can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • What if my consommé is still cloudy after clarification?

    You may need to clarify the consommé a second time. Ensure the raft is fully formed and undisturbed during the straining process.