Instant Pot Turkey Bone Broth Recipe

Cook Time: 120 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 carcass from a 10-pound turkey
• 12 cups water
• 4 chicken bouillon cubes
• 2 stalks celery, cut into 3-inch pieces
• 1 onion, peeled and quartered
• 1 small bunch fresh parsley
• 5 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns

Directions

1. Place the turkey carcass, water, bouillon cubes, celery, onion, parsley, thyme, apple cider vinegar, and peppercorns into a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot).
2. Close and lock the lid of the pressure cooker. Set the cooker to high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions and set the timer for 90 minutes.
3. Allow 30 minutes for pressure to build before cooking begins.
4. After the cooking time is complete, release the pressure using the natural-release method as per the manufacturer's guidelines. This should take 10 to 40 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure using the quick-release method, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Unlock and remove the lid of the cooker. Discard the larger solid pieces from the broth.
6. Strain the remaining broth through a fine mesh colander to separate the liquid from the solids. Allow the broth to cool.

Cook's Note

Store the strained broth in a covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. To serve, pour 1 cup of broth into a microwave-safe cup and microwave on high until hot, about 2 1/2 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	81
Total Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	191mg
Total Carbohydrate	2g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	10g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	21mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	181mg

Servings per recipe: 12

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Turkey Bone Broth

Turkey bone broth has roots that stretch deep into American culinary history, particularly as a practical solution for using leftover bones after holiday feasts. Traditionally, after Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners, the carcass of the roasted turkey was simmered for hours to extract its rich flavors and nutrients. This practice ensured nothing went to waste and provided a nourishing, mineral-rich broth that could be consumed on its own or used as a base for soups and stews. Over time, this humble preparation evolved into a staple in many households, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its health benefits.

Regional Variations

While turkey bone broth is common across the United States, regional variations do exist. In the South, it is often infused with robust spices such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika, giving it a richer, slightly smoky character. In the Northeast, herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves dominate, creating a lighter and aromatic broth. The West Coast sometimes incorporates vegetables like fennel or leeks to complement the subtle sweetness of the turkey. These regional touches showcase how a single recipe can reflect local tastes and available ingredients.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Turkey bone broth differs from chicken or beef broth in several ways. It has a distinctively milder yet slightly sweet flavor compared to the stronger taste of beef broth, while its gelatinous textureachieved through slow cooking the bonesis more pronounced than that of typical chicken broth. Unlike soups that often include meat, vegetables, or grains, turkey bone broth focuses solely on the essence extracted from bones and aromatics, making it more concentrated and nutrient-dense.

Where Its Commonly Served

Turkey bone broth is versatile in its uses. It can be served as a warming beverage, often sipped from a mug on chilly mornings or during recovery from illness. It is also a foundational ingredient in soups, risottos, and sauces, providing depth of flavor. Some restaurants now offer gourmet versions of bone broth as part of wellness menus, often paired with fresh herbs or a splash of citrus to highlight its natural richness.

Interesting Facts

• Bone broth has been consumed for centuries across many cultures for its purported health benefits, including supporting joint health and boosting immunity.
• The gelatin in turkey bone broth comes from collagen in the bones and connective tissue, giving it a slightly thick texture when cooled.
• Using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker drastically reduces the cooking time from traditional stove-top methods while still extracting maximum flavor and nutrients.
• Leftover turkey carcasses from holiday meals often inspire families to prepare bone broth, turning waste into a nourishing tradition.
• Drinking a cup of turkey bone broth is sometimes recommended as a soothing remedy for sore throats or cold symptoms due to its warm, hydrating nature.

FAQ about Instant Pot Turkey Bone Broth Recipe