Magic Mineral Broth

Directions

1. 1
   Rinse all of the vegetables well, including the kombu.
2. 2
   In a 12-quart or larger stockpot, combine the carrots, onions, leek, celery, potatoes, sweet potatoes, yam, garlic, parsley, kombu, peppercorns, allspice berries, and bay leaves.
3. 3
   Fill the pot with the water to 2 inches below the rim, cover, and bring to a boil.
4. 4
   Remove the lid, decrease the heat to low, and simmer, uncovered, for at least 2 hours.
5. 5
   As the broth simmers, some of the water will evaporate; add more if the vegetables begin to peek out.
6. 6
   Simmer until the full richness of the vegetables can be tasted.
7. 7
   Strain the broth through a large, coarse-mesh sieve (remember to use a heat-resistant container underneath), then add salt to taste.
8. 8
   Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
9. 9
   Like fine wine, this broth gets better with age.
10. 10
    The longer the simmer time, the better tasting and more nutrient dense the broth will be.
11. 11
    You can also cut the recipe in half and make it in a slow cooker.
12. 12
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days or in the freezer for 4 months.
13. 13
    (per serving)
14. 14
    Calories: 45
15. 15
    Total Fat: 0g (0g saturated, 0g monounsaturated)
16. 16
    Carbohydrates: 11g
17. 17
    Protein: 1g
18. 18
    Fiber: 2g
19. 19
    Sodium: 140mg
20. 20
    Kombu might sound like an exotic name for a jazz ensemble, but its really a long, dark brown to black seaweed that is dried and folded into sheets.
21. 21
    It keeps indefinitely if stored in a cool, dry place.
22. 22
    Kombu contains a full range of trace minerals, which are often deficient in people with compromised immune systems, and is high in potassium, iodine, calcium, and vitamins A and C. Its also rich in a type of polysaccharide known as fucoidans, which may inhibit cancer cells.
23. 23
    Kombu is available in the Asian section of many grocery stores, or you can order it online (see Resources, page 208).