Kittencal's Homemade Pork Stock

Ingredients

• 5-6 lbs pork side ribs (or use bone-in country-style ribs, I use a combination of both, sliced into smaller pieces)
• 1/3 cup tomato paste (or as needed to barely coat the ribs)
• cold water
• 10 black peppercorns
• 2 medium onions (quartered , do not peel leave the skin on)
• 2 carrots, peeled
• 1 large celery rib
• 12 large fresh garlic cloves, sliced in half (I just use a whole head garlic)
• 1 tablespoon salt (or to taste)

Directions

1. 1

   Set oven to 400 degrees F.

2. 2

   Grease a large jelly-roll pan.

3. 3

   Place the ribs on the pan and using a pastry brush, coat the ribs very lightly on both sides with tomato paste (do not use too much tomato paste just use enough to barely coat the ribs).

4. 4

   Since there is a fair amount of ribs you might need to roast the ribs in 2 batches that is why I would advise you to do this a day or a few days ahead.

5. 5

   Roast the ribs for about 25-30 minutes, then turn the ribs over and roast for another 25 minutes or until browned (careful not to burn).

6. 6

   At this point you may refrigerate or freeze the ribs until ready to make the stock.

7. 7

   Place the ribs in the stockpot along with all remaining ingredients.

8. 8

   Pour in water to completely cover the ribs and to about three-quarters to the top of the pot; bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

9. 9

   As the broth comes to a simmer skim off any foam that has accumulated on top.

10. 10

    Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for about 4 hours, simmering at the barest possible simmer to avoid bruising the bones (you may simmer longer if desired).

11. 11

    Remove the stockpot from the heat and allow to rest for about 1-1/2 hours.

12. 12

    Ladle off and discard any fat that has accumulated on the top of the stock.

13. 13

    Using long tongs remove the ribs from the pot (discard or save).

14. 14

    Place a fine strainer over a large bowl and strain the stock into the bowl.

15. 15

    Allow the stock to come to room temperature, then refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze in 1 or 2-cup plastic containers.