Collagen broths are liquid gold for every age group as it nourishes your body from the inside out to unlock optimal growth and vibrant health. They have been used in culinary traditions around the world from China to Japan and many Western regions, by simmering leftover bones and food scraps in water to extract essential nutrients. As nutritious as the broths are, they are also very time-consuming to prepare and can take up to 24 hours on a low simmer for a more robust broth. In recent years, collagen has become more commercially available in broth packets and powdered supplements.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the health benefits of collagen broths and the variety available in Singapore.
What is Collagen Broth?
Collagen broths are nutritious and flavourful liquids made by simmering animal bones, cartilage, and connective tissues for hours to extract collagen and other beneficial compounds, from the ingredients into the broth. To elevate the flavour of the broth, vegetables like carrots and celery along with herbs and spices are added into the broth. Once the impurities and foam are skimmed off the surface, the resulting broth is an aromatic liquid rich in collagen, gelatin, amino acids, and minerals.
Bones of chicken, beef and fish are often thrown out as waste once the flesh has been consumed but broth is a perfect way to make use of every part of the animal including tendons, knuckles and cartilage. The long simmering time breaks down the collagen and other proteins present in the bones and tissues, releasing nutrients into the broth. This includes amino acids like glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, which are essential for collagen synthesis in the body.
Collagen broths can be consumed as a nourishing and savoury beverage on their own, or they can be used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. The broth adds depth of flavour and a plethora of nutrients to any dish.
What are the benefits of collagen broth?
Collagen broth is perfect to be incorporated into meals for both children and adults alike because of the various benefits they bring. Here are some of the benefits of collagen broths:
Rich in collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and plays a vital role in maintaining the health of our skin, bones, joints, and connective tissues. For infants in their rapid development phase and adults who may be wearing out their joints, collagen-rich broths provide essential amino acids that support skin elasticity and joint health.
Amino acid profile
Collagen broths contain a good balance of essential and non-essential amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are necessary for various bodily functions, including muscle repair, tissue growth, and immune system support. Infants and adults can benefit from the amino acids in collagen broths to support healthy growth, development, and overall well-being.
Easy digestion
Collagen broths are generally easier to digest compared to solid foods, making them suitable for infants and individuals with sensitive digestive systems. The slow cooking process used to make broths helps break down collagen and other proteins into more digestible forms, allowing for better nutrient absorption.
Nutrient density
Infants have small appetites so it is crucial that everything they consume has high nutritional value. Collagen broths are rich in nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and glucosamine, which can contribute to bone health, support the immune system, and aid in overall nutritional balance.
Versatility in cooking
Collagen broths can serve as a versatile base for various recipes and can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be enjoyed as a warm, nourishing soup on their own or used as a cooking liquid for grains, stews, sauces, and gravies. This versatility makes collagen broths a convenient and adaptable option for both infants and adults with different dietary preferences and needs.
Here are some ways you can incorporate broths to your meals:
Chicken Collagen Broth: The Classic Choice
Souper Fond Ingredients: Chicken, celery, carrot, onion, bay leaf, water
Chicken broth has a mild and light flavour and is generally lower in calories and fat content compared to beef broth. Chicken broth is rich in protein and vitamins such as niacin and vitamin B6. It is a perfect addition to lighter soups and sauces because of its delicate and subtle flavour.
Recipe suggestion: Chicken soup
Ingredients:
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Celery Stalks, finely chopped
- 2 Carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, minced
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 3 X 500ml Souper Fond Chicken Collagen Broth
- Dried Rosemary & Thyme
- 450g Chicken Breasts/Thighs
- ¾ Cup Vermicelli
- Salt & Pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Add oil and sautee the carrots, celery, onions and garlic until softened for around 10 minutes.
- Once the vegetables are softened, add the chicken, ginger, bay leaves, dried herbs and salt and pepper to the pot. Cover the ingredients with the Souper Fond Chicken Collagen Broth and cook until the chicken is fork tender, about 20 minutes. You may add water to the pot if the broth does not cover the ingredients completely.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it. You may choose to strain the liquid and remove the bay leaves
- Return the shredded chicken, and strained broth to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes. Then, add the vermicelli noodles for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot!
Fish Collagen Broth: A Seafood Delight
Souper Fond Ingredients: Barramundi fish bones, ginger, spring onion, water
Fish broth has a distinct, seafood flavour that has a delicate and slightly briny taste. It is rich in minerals such as iodine, selenium, and various vitamins, including vitamin D and B vitamins. Fish broth is commonly used in seafood-based dishes, including soups, stews, and chowder as it can enhance and complement the umami flavour.
Recipe Suggestion: Fisherman’s Seafood Soup
Ingredients:
- 2l of Souper Fond’s Fish Broth
- 1 pound mixed seafood (such as shrimp, scallops, mussels, and fish fillets), cleaned and deveined
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the Souper Fond fish broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
- Gently add the mixed seafood into the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the seafood soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve the soup hot, accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the soup, which adds a refreshing citrus flavour.
Beef Broth: A Robust Option
Souper Fond Ingredients: Beef, celery, carrot, onion, bay leaf, olive oil, water
Beef broth has a rich and hearty flavour and is rich in minerals like iron, zinc and selenium. Beef broth is often considered to have a higher collagen content due to the presence of collagen-rich cuts of meat and bones. Its robust flavour makes it suitable to be used for heartier recipes like stews, braises and meat-based sauces.
Recipe Suggestion: Beef & Vegetable Stew
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1L of Souper Fond Rich Beef Broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine the flour with salt and pepper. Dredge the beef stew meat in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until well-seared on all sides. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Return the browned beef to the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the dried thyme and add the bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavours have melded together. Stir occasionally.
- Once the stew is cooked, discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the beef and vegetable stew into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve the stew hot and enjoy its comforting flavours.
Ikan Bilis and Soybean Collagen Broth: A Flavorful Alternative
Souper Fond Ingredients: Ikan bilis, soybean, chicken, ginger, water
Ikan Bilis and soybean contribute a savoury and umami flavour and are rich sources of protein. Ikan Bilis is a good source of vitamin B12, which is essential for the production of red blood cells, proper nerve function, and DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods, making Ikan Bilis a valuable source for individuals following a pescatarian diet.
Recipe Suggestion: Asian-Style Steamed Fish
Ingredients:
- 1 whole fish (such as sea bass, snapper, or trout), cleaned and scaled
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, sliced
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
- 1 cup baby bok choy, halved
- 500ml Souper Fond Ikan Bilis and Soybean Collagen Broth
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Steamed rice (for serving)
Directions:
- Rinse the fish thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it on a heatproof plate or in a steamer basket.
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sliced green onion. Mix well to make the marinade.
- Pour half of the marinade over the fish, ensuring it coats both sides. Set aside and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare your steamer. If using a traditional steamer, bring water to a boil in the bottom pot. If using a steamer basket, bring water to a boil in a separate pot.
- Arrange the sliced shiitake mushrooms and halved baby bok choy around the fish on the plate or in the steamer basket.
- Place the plate or steamer basket in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the fish is steaming, heat the ikan bilis broth in a small saucepan over medium heat until it comes to a gentle simmer.
- Once the fish is cooked, carefully transfer it to a serving platter.
- Pour the heated soybean broth over the fish and vegetables. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.
- Serve with steamed rice.
Enjoy Flavourful Nutrition with Souper Fond Collagen Broths
Healthy bone broths are a laborious process to make so most people often resort to getting stock cubes off the shelves to save time. While mass-produced stock cubes are convenient and have a much stronger taste, they are filled with MSG, artificial flavourings and preservatives to enhance shelf life.
At Souper Fond, we bring the best of both worlds like bringing healthy and nutritious collagen broths at your convenience. All our broths are made without the addition of salt, sugar, MSG, preservatives or colourings so they are suitable to feed infants as young as 8 months old and various dietary preferences.
Our broths are made fresh and can be delivered to your doorstep. We recommend that thawed broths are consumed within 2 days and kept chilled once out of the freezer. Make our versatile broths your own by adding them to your favourite family recipes to pack every meal with nutrients.
