I love going hard on the charring of the veg which translates to absolute deliciousness! The lush richness & mouthfeel from the chicken fat is addictive as is the rich golden turmeric tone. I’ve used this broth for the base for dumpling soup, veg soup, thrown into a curry and drunk it just as it is. It’s that versatile! And it makes me feel healthy with every drop!
ALANA LOWES
GOLDEN GINGER TURMERIC BROTH
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 x 10cm piece ginger, peeled and halved lengthwise
2 medium brown onion, unpeeled, halved
1 head of garlic, unpeeled, halved crosswise
2 (4-5cm) pieces fresh turmeric, peeled and halved lengthwise
4 celery stalks, roughly chopped
1 large fennel bulb, chopped
3 – 4 fresh or dried bay leaves
3 whole star anise
3 whole cloves
Option 1 – 1.5kg whole, free range chicken
Option 2 – 2-3 chicken frames, salt and ground black pepper
3L water
Method
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, fresh turmeric and ginger, all cut-side down without stirring. After a few minutes everything should start to lightly char and the change in aroma will indicate this. This toasty char will be what helps to give your broth a deep rich and smoky flavour.
Next, add in the celery, fennel, bay leaves, star anise, cloves, salt & pepper and stir. Cook for around 4 minutes, stirring everything around, until the vegetables start to soften. Add the chicken and 12 cups water. Reduce heat to low and slowly bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid leaving a tiny gap for the steam to escape.
Option 1 – Once the broth is simmering, the whole chicken will be cooked through at about the 30 minute mark. Always best to check internal temperature of the thick parts of the chicken are 75 degrees though. Remove the chicken and set it aside to let it cool down enough to handle. Shred the meat from bones and keep this to use in soups, wraps, pies or other dishes. Place the carcass back into the stock and continue to simmer for another 2 to 3 hours or even longer if you’d like.
Continue to simmer the broth until reduced by about a third. Best to reduce it more than less as the flavour will be more intensified. Season to your taste. This much liquid can take a good amount of seasoning so don’t be shy. Your broth is now ready! Strain into whatever jars or containers you’re going to store it in or use straight away as a base stock to build a soup or curry from. It’s also perfect to freeze for later.
✨ Golden Ginger Turmeric Broth
Alana’s Golden Ginger Turmeric Broth is a deeply nourishing, versatile broth that’s as comforting as it is flavourful. Built on the warming, earthy tones of fresh turmeric and ginger, it gets its rich, smoky depth from the intentional charring of onion, garlic, and spices. The addition of chicken (either a whole bird or frames) adds body and lushness, with the chicken fat giving it a silky mouthfeel.
This broth isn’t just a base, it’s a flavourful star on its own. Sip it straight for a feel-good boost, or use it to enrich dumpling soups, vegetable stews, or fragrant curries. It’s also practical: shred the poached chicken meat for wraps, pies, or salads, and freeze leftover broth for quick, healthy meals anytime.
With its golden hue and balanced blend of aromatics like star anise, fennel, and cloves, it offers both comfort and complexity, perfect for anyone wanting to cook something that feels nourishing and a little bit special.
🎯 Who would love this recipe?
-
Health-conscious cooks: Those who look for anti-inflammatory, gut-friendly, and nutrient-rich recipes (turmeric and ginger being key ingredients here).
-
Home cooks who love versatility: People who appreciate making a batch item that can serve many dishes across the week.
-
Foodies & flavour seekers: Anyone drawn to layers of flavour—from the smokiness of charred veg to warm spices.
-
Meal-preppers & batch cookers: Those who like having homemade broth in the freezer for quick soups, curries, or sauces.
-
Comfort food lovers: Especially in cooler months, this broth feels restorative and comforting.

