Here’s a complete explanation of Bouillon (Soup) 🍲
📘 Bouillon – Overview
🔹 What is Bouillon?
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Bouillon is a clear, flavorful soup made by simmering meat, bones, poultry, fish, or vegetables with herbs and seasonings in water.
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The word “bouillon” comes from the French word bouillir, meaning “to boil”.
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It is one of the most basic forms of stock, often used as a base for soups, sauces, gravies, and stews.
🔹 Ingredients (Basic Bouillon)
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Meat or Bones – chicken, beef, fish, or veal.
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Vegetables – onions, carrots, celery, leeks.
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Herbs & Spices – bay leaf, thyme, parsley, peppercorns, garlic.
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Water – the base liquid.
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Salt – added at the end for taste.
🔹 Preparation Method
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Place meat/bones and vegetables in a large pot.
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Cover with cold water and bring to a gentle boil.
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Skim off foam/impurities from the surface.
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Add herbs and spices.
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Simmer gently (not a rolling boil) for 2–4 hours (for poultry or beef) or 30–45 minutes (for fish/vegetable bouillon).
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Strain the liquid through a fine sieve.
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Use immediately or store in the refrigerator/freezer.
🔹 Types of Bouillon
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Beef Bouillon – made from beef bones/meat, rich and hearty.
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Chicken Bouillon – lighter, delicate flavor, very popular.
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Fish Bouillon (Court Bouillon) – used for poaching fish/seafood.
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Vegetable Bouillon – made with vegetables only, suitable for vegetarians.
🔹 Uses of Bouillon
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Served as a clear soup on its own (often with garnish like herbs or noodles).
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Used as a base for:
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Soups & stews
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Sauces & gravies
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Risottos & pilafs
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Braised dishes
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Can be made into bouillon cubes or powder (dehydrated version) for convenience.
🔹 Nutritional Value (per 1 cup ~240 ml, chicken bouillon)
(approximate values – without extra fat)
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Calories: 10–15 kcal
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Protein: 1–2 g
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Fat: 0–1 g
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Carbohydrates: 1–2 g
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Sodium: 800–900 mg (if using bouillon cubes; homemade has less salt)
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Micronutrients: small amounts of calcium, magnesium, potassium (depends on ingredients).
🔹 Health Notes
✅ Light, easy-to-digest, often used for people recovering from illness.
✅ Provides hydration, some electrolytes, and mild protein.
⚠️ Commercial bouillon cubes/powders are usually high in sodium and MSG – best to limit intake.
✅ Homemade bouillon is healthier, fresher, and customizable.
🔹 Conclusion
Bouillon is a fundamental clear soup and cooking stock that forms the backbone of countless recipes worldwide.
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It is simple yet versatile, providing a base of flavor and nutrition.
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While store-bought bouillon cubes are convenient, homemade bouillon is healthier and more flavorful.
👉 Would you like me to also give you a step-by-step recipe for making homemade bouillon cubes/paste (so you can store and use them easily)?
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