VEGETABLE STOCK
Used with permition of Rebecca Woods
Author of "Splendid Grains" volume and BeNourished.com website
  Ingredients:
  • 2 onions
  • 3 carrots, scrubbed
  • 7 sprigs of parsley
  • 2 stalks celery or fennel, washed and rinsed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 dried Shiitake mushrooms
  • 1 (2 to 4 inches) of strip kombu
  • 8 sprigs of fresh thyme
  • Assorted vegetable trimmings and scraps 8 cups water
Preparation:
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the onions and carrots on a baking sheet and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven and cut lengthwise in half. Put in a stockpot with the remaining ingredients, place over high heat, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a bare simmer.
  • Simmer for at least 2 hours or up to 6 hours.
  • Strain through a fine sieve or double thickness of cheesecloth.
  • (May be stored, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Freeze in 1-cup containers for easy use.)
Note:
To flavor a clear stock, simmer it with a fresh bouquet garni. Stuff a leek leaf or fill a celery or fennel stalk with sprigs of parsley, thyme, and other fresh herbs. Tie with cotton thread or string, leaving a long tail for easy removal, and submerge the bouquet. Remove before serving.