How to drink bone marrow?

Bone marrow, a delicacy in many cultures, has been valued for its nutritional properties. Wondering how to drink bone marrow? The most popular methods involve making a savory bone broth or a creamy spread, unlocking many nutrients.

Quick Summary

Explore several ways to prepare and drink bone marrow, from making bone broth to using it as a spread. Key cooking techniques, health benefits, and simple recipes are included.

Key Points

• Bone Broth: Simmer bone marrow for a nutrient-rich, flavorful broth for daily use.

• Creamy Elixir: Roast bones and whip marrow into a smooth liquid.

• Pre-soak Bones: Soak bones in salted water before cooking to remove impurities.

• Flavor Boosters: Add vegetables, herbs, and apple cider vinegar to broth.

• Nutritional Benefits: Bone marrow supports joints, gut health, and immunity.

• Flavor Pairings: Pair marrow with acidic flavors.

• Versatile Uses: Use broth or whipped marrow in various dishes.

Bone Marrow: A Nutritional Overview

Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside bones, particularly in large bones like the femur. It is rich in healthy fats, collagen, vitamins, and minerals, including B12, iron, and phosphorus. Bone marrow is often used in broths but is also suitable for direct consumption. Humans have consumed bone marrow for its dense nutrition for centuries.

The Bone Broth Method

Making bone broth is a common way to drink bone marrow. The slow cooking process extracts marrow, minerals, and collagen from the bone. This creates a health-boosting liquid.

Preparing the Bones

Use high-quality beef marrow bones, which are available at butcher shops. Soaking the bones is recommended.

1. Place bones in a pot with cold, salted water.
2. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours, changing the water.
3. Rinse and dry the bones.

Roasting and Simmering

Roasting bones adds flavor to the broth.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the bones for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
3. Transfer bones to a stockpot or slow cooker.
4. Add onions, carrots, celery, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil, then simmer.
6. Cook for 8-48 hours, removing scum.
7. Strain the liquid. Cool and store.

Reheat and sip the broth. Add salt, pepper, or herbs.

The Whipped Marrow Elixir

This method uses the marrow's creamy texture directly.

Roasting Marrow Bones

1. Ask the butcher to cut beef femur bones lengthwise.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Place bones marrow-side up on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 15-25 minutes until the marrow is soft.

Whipping the Marrow

1. Let the bones cool.
2. Scoop the marrow into a bowl.
3. Add hot water or broth to a blender. Blend until smooth.
4. Season to taste. Add lemon juice or herbs.

Serve warm in a cup or use it in sauces. Mash the roasted marrow on toast.

Comparing Drinking Methods

Feature	Bone Broth	Whipped Marrow
Flavor	Savory and rich with earthy undertones.	Rich, buttery, and decadent.
Consistency	Liquid broth.	Smooth, creamy, and velvety.
Preparation Time	Long (8-48 hours).	Quick (30 minutes).
Nutrients	Collagen, gelatin, and minerals.	Healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Culinary Use	Base for soups or a drink.	Best sipped or in sauces.

Serving Suggestions

• Broth: Serve warm with herbs, hot sauce, or lemon.
• Elixir: Serve warm as an appetizer. Add salt or pepper.
• Flavor Pairings: Bone marrow complements acidic flavors. Serve with sourdough and onion marmalade.

Conclusion

Whether you make bone broth or a whipped elixir, bone marrow is versatile. It offers health benefits, such as promoting joint and gut health. Follow these methods to include this superfood in your diet.

For more on bone marrow's health benefits, see WebMD.

References

• Healthline. (2019). Bone Marrow: Nutrition, Benefits, and Food Sources. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bone-marrow
• WebMD. (2025). Health Benefits of Bone Marrow. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-bone-marrow
• Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Bone Marrow: What it is & Why it is Important. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22818-bone-marrow
• Healthline. (2019). Bone Marrow: Nutrition, Benefits, and Food Sources. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bone-marrow
• WebMD. (2025). Health Benefits of Bone Marrow. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-bone-marrow
• Rumba Meats. How to Make & Use Bone Broth With Beef Marrow Bones. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://rumbameats.com/how-to/how-to-make-use-bone-broth-with-beef-marrow-bones/
• Peter Augustus Craft Butcher. How to Cook Bone Marrow at Home. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.peteraugustus.com.au/blogs/steak-school-by-stanbroke/how-to-cook-bone-marrow-at-home
• Oxtail Marmalade. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/bone-marrow-with-oxtail-marmalade
• Taste Magazine. Roast bone marrow with onion marmalade and ciabatta. Retrieved October 12, 2025, from https://www.taste.co.za/recipes/roast-bone-marrow-onion-marmalade-ciabatta/

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the simplest way to drink bone marrow?

Make bone broth by simmering marrow bones. Drink the finished broth by itself or as a base for soups.

Do you eat bone marrow cooked or raw?

Bone marrow should always be cooked. Once cooked, the marrow can be scooped and consumed.

What kind of bones are best for bone broth?

Beef marrow bones are a popular choice. Oxtails, knuckle bones, and shank bones also work well.

What does bone marrow taste like?

Bone marrow has a rich, fatty, and savory flavor with a buttery texture.

What are the key health benefits of drinking bone marrow?

It provides healthy fats, collagen, and vitamins, supporting joint function, reducing inflammation, and promoting gut health.

How do you store bone marrow broth?

Store broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for several months.

Can I make bone marrow broth in a slow cooker?

Yes, a slow cooker is ideal. Combine the roasted bones with water and aromatics and simmer on low for 24 hours or more.