Cooking broth starter

A cooking broth starter is a concentrated base used to build flavor in soups, stews, and sauces, typically made by simmering bones, vegetables, herbs, and aromatics for hours. It's a foundational element in cuisines worldwide, from Asian-style stocks to Western mirepoix-based broths.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Generally low in carbs and fat but can be moderate in protein from animal bones or plant-based sources, it provides minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. A typical serving (1 cup) ranges from 15-40 calories, depending on whether it's meat-based or vegetable-based.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	12 kcal
Protein	1 g
Carbs	1.5 g
Fat	0.2 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0.5 g
Sodium	860 mg
Sodium	860 mg
Potassium	120 mg
Phosphorus	30 mg
Iron	0.2 mg
Vitamin B12	0.1 mcg
Niacin (B3)	0.3 mg
Pantothenic Acid (B5)	0.1 mg
Copper	0.05 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it's the 'secret weapon' of home cooks across generations, often passed down as a family recipe. Nutritionally, it can act as a gentle electrolyte source and is prized for its umami depth, which enhances other ingredients without overpowering them.