2 lbs Chicken Bones (Can substitute with pork bones for richer flavor.)
4 quarts Water (Use cold water.)
6–8 cloves Garlic (Crushed lightly.)
3 stalks Cilantro Roots or Stems (Either works for flavor.)
1 teaspoon Ground White Pepper (Black pepper can be used as an alternative.)
2 tablespoons Thin Soy Sauce (Tamari for gluten-free option.)
1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Adjust based on taste.)
1 pinch Sugar (To balance salty flavors.)
Lemongrass, Galangal, or Kaffir Lime Leaves (Optional for added fragrance.)
Instructions
Begin by rinsing the chicken bones under cool running water to eliminate any impurities.
Combine chicken bones with cold water in a large pot, add crushed garlic and cilantro roots or stems, and bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
Skim any floating impurities or foam for the first 30 minutes to keep the broth clear.
After one hour, taste the broth and add fish sauce and soy sauce; adjust sweetness with sugar if desired.
Continue simmering for an additional hour, ensuring a gentle simmer throughout.
Turn off the heat and strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot or bowl.
Let the broth cool to room temperature before storing in airtight containers.