Chicken broth is a pantry staple that enhances the flavor of soups, stews, risottos, and gravies. With countless options available in supermarkets, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this taste test, we explore the best and worst chicken broths available on the market, providing insights to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Chicken Broth
Before diving into the taste test, it's essential to understand what chicken broth is and how it is made. Most supermarket chicken broths are sold as liquid in one-quart boxes, but there are also powdered bouillon and concentrated pastes that require reconstitution in boiling water.
How Chicken Broth is Made
- Liquid Broth: Large volumes of chicken meat and bones are cooked in water under high pressure. Afterward, vegetables and other flavoring agents, such as tomato paste and turmeric, are added. Thickeners like flour or potato starch may also be included.
- Bouillon: This is made by dehydrating liquid broth into solids and milling it into powder. Hydrogenated fat is often added to enhance richness and mimic homemade broth.
- Concentrates: These are thick pastes that can be reconstituted with water, offering a more concentrated flavor.
Shelf Life Considerations
Liquid broth typically lasts three to four days after opening and can be frozen for about three months. In contrast, a jar of Better Than Bouillon can yield 38 cups of broth and lasts up to two years after its manufacturing date.
The Taste Test
Our taste test featured five leading brands from a total of ten sampled. Joining me for this tasting was Lisa McManus from the Reviews Team, who shared her insights and opinions throughout the process.
Brand A: Knorr Bouillon Powder
- Appearance: Granular residue with floating green flecks.
- Taste: Very salty with a commercial flavor, lacking the depth of homemade broth.
- Overall Impression: Not recommended due to its unappetizing appearance and flavor.
Brand B: Progresso Reduced Sodium
- Appearance: Clear with a mild color.
- Taste: Mild flavor with strange notes reminiscent of old bones and tomato skins.
- Overall Impression: Not recommended; tasters noted a lingering acidic taste and fishy notes.
Brand C: Better Than Bouillon
- Appearance: Vivid color, resembling Gatorade.
- Taste: Strong chicken flavor with a salty profile. Tasters appreciated its versatility and convenience.
- Overall Impression: Recommended as the best buy due to its concentrated nature and favorable taste.
Brand D: Zoup!
- Appearance: Amber color, similar to apple juice.
- Taste: Watery with a burnt flavor, lacking the essence of chicken.
- Overall Impression: Not recommended; tasters found it unappealing and one-dimensional.
Brand E: Swanson Chicken Stock
- Appearance: Clear with a slight cloudiness.
- Taste: Mild and delicate, tasting like real chicken broth. Tasters noted its umami-rich flavor and good balance of salt.
- Overall Impression: Highly recommended and awarded as the winner of the taste test.
Official Rankings
- Highly Recommended: Swanson and Swanson Organic
- Recommended: Better Than Bouillon, Pacific Foods
- Recommended with Reservations: Knorr Bouillon Powder, College Inn
- Not Recommended: Kitchen Basics, Zoup!, Kettle & Fire, Progresso
Tips for Choosing and Using Chicken Broth
- Better Than Bouillon: Use it to enhance stir-fries without adding moisture.
- Pouring Liquid Broth: To avoid splattering, pour from the spout on top of the Tetra Pak.
Conclusion
Choosing the right chicken broth can significantly impact the flavor of your dishes. Our taste test revealed that Swanson Chicken Stock is the top choice, while brands like Progresso and Zoup! fell short. What is your favorite chicken broth? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
