
Bouillon Cube
Bouillon cubes are dehydrated blocks of concentrated flavor, typically made from vegetable, chicken, beef, or fish stock, along with salt, fat, and seasonings. They offer a convenient and shelf-stable way to add rich, savory depth to soups, stews, sauces, and other dishes. The dry cube dissolves in hot water, creating a flavorful broth. While convenient, some bouillon cubes can be high in sodium, so reading labels is recommended. They are an easy way to quickly create broth from a concentrate, enhancing the overall taste profile of recipes.
Common Uses
- Bouillon cubes are used to quickly create broth for soups and stews by dissolving them in hot water, providing a flavorful base without requiring homemade stock.
- Use a bouillon cube crumbled or dissolved to enhance the flavor of sauces and gravies, adding a savory depth to complement the other ingredients.
- Dissolve a bouillon cube in the water used for cooking grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous to infuse them with extra flavor and create a more delicious side dish.
- Add crumbled bouillon cubes to season vegetable dishes and stir-fries, enhancing their taste and adding a salty, umami element, making vegetables more palatable.
- Create a quick and flavorful poaching liquid for fish or chicken by dissolving a bouillon cube in water with herbs and spices, imparting a savory taste to the protein.
- Bouillon cubes can be used as a seasoning when making ground meat dishes like burgers, meatloaf, or chili, they infuse a deep savory quality into these proteins.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
5.0kcal (0.25%)
Protein
0.3g (0.6%)
Carbs
0.6g (0.22%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
5.0kcal (0.25%)
Protein
0.3g (0.6%)
Carbs
0.6g (0.22%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Provides electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which can help replenish those lost through sweat or illness.
- Contributes to hydration, as it encourages fluid intake when dissolved in water.
- Offers a low-calorie way to add flavor to dishes, which can be helpful for weight management.
- May be easier to digest for some individuals compared to richer, more complex sauces or gravies.
- Can be used to create clear broths which can be soothing during illness.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Bouillon cubes should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. An airtight container is ideal to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause them to crumble or dissolve prematurely. Properly stored bouillon cubes can last for an extended period, often several months or even years beyond the printed expiration date, but check for any changes in color, texture, or odor before use.
Chefadora AI is Here.
Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia