Parmesan Broth

A rich, flavorful broth made from Parmesan rinds, aromatic vegetables, and herbs. This versatile broth can be used as a base for soups, pastas, and beans.

4 servings
2 hr 20 min

Ingredients

  • 1 head halved head of garlic
  • 1 whole quartered onion
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 handful thyme
  • 3 sprigs parsley
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 pound Parmesan rinds
  • 8 cups water

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    I start by sautéing a halved head of garlic and a quartered onion in some olive oil, along with a handful of thyme, a few sprigs of parsley, a bay leaf, and a shake of black peppercorns. Once the garlic is browned, I add a cup of dry white wine and simmer, scraping the pot to get the brown bits loosened up, until reduced by half. In goes 1 pound Parmesan rinds and 8 cups of water.

    20 min

  2. 2.

    The whole thing simmers until it tastes robust and has reduced by half, about 2 hours. (I stir every now and then-the rinds will stick to the bottom of the pot if you let them.) I strain, and then use the broth in vegetable soups, instant-supper pastas, and beans in need of a boost. Then I start hoarding all over again.

    120 min