Cooking bone marrow can seem intimidating, but with the right steps, it can be a delicious and rewarding culinary experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook bone marrow to perfection.
Preparation
Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prepare the bone marrow bones properly.
Soaking the Bones
To remove any impurities and blood, soak the bones in a salted water solution. Mix 1 tablespoon of salt with 1 cup of cold water, and submerge the bones in this solution. Refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, replacing the salt water solution every 4 hours if possible[5].
Cleaning the Bones
After soaking, drain the bones and clean them with a knife to remove any excess meat or tendons. Ensure the bones are nicely trimmed and free of excess impurities or blood. If necessary, use a saline solution again to draw out any remaining blood and impurities[4].
Roasting the Bone Marrow
Roasting is one of the most popular methods for cooking bone marrow, and it brings out the best flavors.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving the right texture and flavor[3][4][5].
Seasoning the Bones
Place the cleaned bones on a baking sheet or roasting pan. You can season them lightly with salt and pepper. For added flavor, you can also sprinkle some freshly minced garlic over the bones[2][4].
Roasting
Stand the bones up on end in the baking dish if they are cut crosswise, or place them cut side up if they are cut lengthwise. Roast the bones in the preheated oven for 15 to 25 minutes, depending on their size. The marrow is done when it is soft, the bones are brown, and the marrow begins to bubble up or puff slightly[3][4][5].
Checking for Doneness
To ensure the marrow is cooked to perfection, check for the following signs:
Soft and Puffed Marrow: The marrow should be soft and slightly puffed. If you insert a metal skewer or knife into the center of the bone, there should be no resistance[4][5].
Internal Temperature: If you have an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature of the marrow should be around 145°F (63°C)[5].
Serving
Once the bone marrow is roasted, it’s time to serve.
Toasting Bread
While the marrow is cooking, prepare some crusty bread. Slice the bread, drizzle it with olive oil, and toast it in a hot pan until it’s crispy. This bread will be used to scoop out the marrow[1][3].
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roasted bone marrow with the toasted bread, and optionally, a parsley salad made with chopped parsley, thinly sliced shallots, capers, olive oil, and lemon juice. You can also sprinkle sea salt and pepper over the marrow for added flavor[1][3][4].
Alternative Methods
While roasting is the most common method, you can also cook bone marrow using other techniques.
Instant Pot / Crock Pot Method
After roasting the bones in the oven for 20-25 minutes, you can transfer them to an Instant Pot or Crock Pot with vegetables like celery, carrot, onion, and garlic. Add boiling water and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, then cook on low simmer for 12 to 24 hours in a Crock Pot or 80 minutes in an Instant Pot[2].
Important Facts About Cooking Bone Marrow
Soaking: Soak the bones in a salted water solution for 12 to 24 hours to remove impurities and blood[5].
Oven Temperature: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) for roasting[3][4][5].
Roasting Time: Roast the bones for 15 to 25 minutes, depending on their size[3][4][5].
Doneness: Check for soft and puffed marrow, and ensure there is no resistance when inserting a skewer or knife[4][5].
Internal Temperature: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) if using a thermometer[5].
Serving: Serve with toasted bread and optional parsley salad or other garnishes[1][3][4].
Alternative Methods: You can also use an Instant Pot or Crock Pot after initial roasting for a slow-cooked broth or stew[2].
By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy perfectly cooked bone marrow that is both flavorful and nutritious.
