You may find it hard to differentiate between beef broth and beef consomme as they appear similar. This article makes it easy for you to understand their differences in terms of appearance, consistency, preparation, and use. You will also be able to know whether or not you can substitute one for the other and why.
Beef broth is a clear, light brown liquid made by simmering bones with the meat on and vegetables on low heat whereas beef consomme is a darker, grease-free liquid made by purifying beef broth or stock through simmering on low heat.
Am sure you’re wondering how you go from a greasy broth/stock to a clear grease-free consomme. Basically, beef consomme is made by simmering vegetables, minced meat, and egg white on low heat. The egg white coagulates in the process pushing all the impurities on the surface leaving a clear grease-free consomme at the bottom.
Difference between beef consomme and beef broth
Although they may share a similar base, beef broth and beef consomme differ in quite a number of ways from the appearance all through their preparation to their use.
Here are the differences between beef broth and beef consomme:
| Beef broth | Beef consomme | |
| Preparation | Made by simmering bones with the meat on and vegetables on low heat | Made by purifying a rich beef broth or beef stock |
| Appearance | Clear and light brown in color | Clear, grease-free, and dark brown in color |
| Consistency | Has a thin consistency | Has a thick consistency |
| Flavor | Mild beef flavor | Concentrated beef flavor |
| Use | Used in recipes like soup, stews, and braising meats and vegetables. | Served on its own as a starter |
Beef broth vs beef consomme health benefits
Beef broth and beef consomme have great health beneficial effects on our bodies. However, some store-bought beef broth and consomme have additives that could do us more harm than good in the long run. It is therefore no doubt that homemade beef broth and consomme will always be the healthiest with every bit of benefit discussed below.
The long-simmering in process of making beef broth allows the bones to release gelatin which is beneficial to the human body in the production of new cells hence maintaining healthy skin, strong and long hair, and nails.
They are both low in calories and easy to digest which is beneficial for people trying to lose weight.
They are also known to naturally keep the gut and the entire digestive system healthy.
Spicy beef broth is also known to heal colds and flu as it helps to thin the respiratory mucus hence easing breathing.
Note: Beef broth is high in sodium and should therefore be used in moderation to reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
Can you substitute one for the other?
Beef broth is way too mild to substitute for beef consomme and on the other hand, beef consomme is too concentrated to be used in place of beef broth. But, you can dilute beef consomme to get a thin consistency and a mild flavor then use it in recipes that call for beef broth.
In short, you can substitute beef consomme for beef broth but you can not substitute beef broth for beef consomme.
How long do homemade beef broth and beef consomme last?
Anything homemade turns out to be healthier since it contains no additives and you can play around with spices to get the flavor of your choice. But, it can be so discouraging for things like beef broth and beef consomme that will require so much of your time especially if you have tight schedules.
The good news is that you can make them in bulk and have them ready whenever you crave for some since they store well for a long period of time. However, for best results, you will need to refrigerate or freeze immediately after cooking as bacteria grow rapidly at room temperature.
To refrigerate beef consomme or broth, put it in an airtight container or a zip lock bag and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, pack them in zip lock bags, remove excess air possible before sealing for quality purposes, then put in the freezer for up to 4-6 months.
ALSO SEE: Vegetable Broth vs. Stock: Differences and Which One is better