Is the foam from boiling bones just impurities to remove?
When should you skim the foam from bone broth? A surprising fact for many!
During the process of boiling and simmering bones, foam appears as impurities and residual blood in the bones and meat are broken down at high temperatures. The first layer of foam that surfaces is dirty foam, which can give the dish an unpleasant odor and should be removed.
After boiling for a while, foam will appear again. This type of foam should be kept because it contains protein, fat, and other nutrients. Discarding it would be a waste of valuable nutrition. This second layer of foam is clear, clean, and rich in the protein and fat from the bones.
Of course, foam isn't exclusive to boiling bones; it also forms during other cooking processes. Many types of kimchi, fruit juices, and noodles produce foam, but this foam doesn’t need to be removed. It is actually beneficial for the body.
How to quickly soften bones and make clear, flavorful broth
Most people rinse bones directly and blanch them before cooking. However, this method isn’t entirely correct. The proper way is to rinse the bones thoroughly after purchasing and soak them in water for 30 minutes. This helps release any excess blood from the bones, effectively reducing unpleasant odors and resulting in a clearer and more flavorful broth.
