Refrigerate the stock in airtight containers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 6 months. We added canned broth to fortify the stock’s flavor, but you can replace it with water, if you prefer.

　　

Ingredients

makes about 5 quarts

　　3 carrots, cut into thirds

　　2 stalks celery, cut into thirds

　　1 bulb fennel, cut into large chunks

　　3 tablespoons fennel seeds, toasted

　　1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

　　1 whole chicken (4 to 6 pounds)

　　2 pounds chicken wings, necks, and backs

　　3 quarts homemade or low-sodium store-bought chicken broth

　　2 quarts cold water

　　

Step 1

In a large stockpot, combine all the ingredients. Cover, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to a very gentle simmer. Cook, uncovered, 1 hour, checking occasionally to make sure the liquid is barely bubbling, and skim the surface with a large metal spoon as needed.

　　

Step 2

Transfer the whole chicken to a cutting board. Let cool slightly, and pull the meat from the sides. (Reserve the meat for another use; store in the refrigerator up to 3 days, covered well with plastic wrap.)

　　

Step 3

Return the chicken bones to the pot. Place a smaller pot lid on the surface of the stock to keep the solids submerged. Simmer until the bones fall apart when poked, 2 1/2 to 4 hours. Skim the surface as needed.

　　

Step 4

Prepare a large ice-water bath. Strain the stock through a fine sieve into a large heatproof bowl, discarding the solids. Set the bowl in the ice-water bath, and let the stock cool to room temperature, stirring frequently.

　　

Step 5

Transfer the stock to airtight containers. Refrigerate at least 8 hours or overnight. With a large metal spoon, skim off and discard the fat layer that has collected on the top. If storing, leave the fat layer intact (it helps to seal in flavor).

　　Reprinted with permission from The Martha Stewart Living Cookbook: The New Classics by Martha Stewart Living Magazine, copyright © 2007. Published by Clarkson Potter, a division of The Crown Publishing Group.Buy the full book from Amazon.