Day 4: Broth for a Bruiser

A delicious chicken stock is simmering away on the stove, filling the house with incredible smells. It's going to be wonderful torture to wait a whole 24 hours for my first taste of it. :)

I love homemade chicken stock because not only is it fast to prepare (dump from jar to a pot, get ready for school, meal is ready), but it is also delicious and carries so many health benefits! From a boosted immune system (important during flu season) to improved joint health, chicken stock is where it's at!

For this stock, I covered a whole chicken in water, then added half a cup of apple cider vinegar to draw out flavor and nutrients. Then I added 2 chopped carrots, half a red onion, and 4 garlic cloves. I also added fresh parsley, herbes de provence, and oregano.

I brought the water to a simmer, skimmed the top of impurities, and then covered it and left it at a low simmer. During the next 24 hours I'll fill the pot with water a few times.

In other news, the unsmiley photo of me was taken this morning after my first trip to the gym in weeks. I did some serious leg work and ran an easy-peasy mile. I've gotten really, really weak. Squats, bench hops, hamstring curls, stepups and walking lunges wore me out! I guess all that yoga and walking wasn't enough to sustain my strength. :) So far I've been active every day of this challenge though - one way or another. I'm excited to get back to a regular gym routine!