Grocery
Chicken Stock Base
What it is
This is a concentrated liquid made from simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and aromatics. It forms the foundation for many savory dishes, adding depth and richness. The process extracts flavor compounds that enrich broths, soups, sauces, and stews. It is a convenient way to achieve a well-rounded chicken flavor without starting from scratch.
How people cook with it
It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of cooking applications.
- Soup base
- Sauce enhancer
- Braising liquid
- Risotto flavor
To use, simply dilute the concentrated stock with water according to package directions or your recipe's needs. It can be added directly to simmering soups and stews to boost their flavor. For sauces, it can be reduced to create a more intense taste. It is also excellent for deglazing pans after searing meats, capturing flavorful browned bits. When making rice dishes like risotto, it provides a savory liquid for cooking the grains.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike chicken broth, which is typically thinner and made from simmering chicken meat, stock is made from bones. This results in a richer mouthfeel and a more robust chicken flavor due to the gelatin extracted from the bones.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use this to elevate their savory creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, transfer any unused portion to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should be used within a few days. For longer storage, it can be frozen in ice cube trays for convenient portioning or in larger containers.