Want to create nutrient-rich bone broth in a fraction of the time? Learning how to soften bones in a pressure cooker is the key. Unlike traditional slow simmering, which can take 24-48 hours, a pressure cooker can break down bones in as little as 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the type of bone.
Not only does this method save time, but it also maximizes nutrient extraction. According to Inspired Taste, using an Instant Pot or a similar electric pressure cooker ensures thicker, more flavorful broth in a fraction of the time. Additionally, if you’re working with bone-in cuts like shank, you may also be interested in the best cooking methods for shank to get the most flavor and tenderness.
Factors That Affect Bone Softening Time
Not all bones soften at the same rate. Several factors determine how long you need to pressure cook them:
- Type of Bone – Chicken bones soften faster than beef bones.
- Thickness & Density – Thicker bones (like beef femurs) require higher pressure and longer cooking times.
- Pressure Cooker Type – Stovetop models tend to cook faster than electric ones like the Instant Pot.
- Cooking Pressure – High pressure speeds up breakdown, while low pressure requires longer cooking.
- Acid Addition – Adding apple cider vinegar helps break down bones faster by dissolving minerals. Simply Recipes suggests adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar per quart of water to maximize softness.
For those specifically working with beef bones, check out this guide on bone-in shank recipes in a pressure cooker for tips on cooking meat along with the bones.
How Long to Soften Different Types of Bones?
| Bone Type | Recommended Pressure Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Chicken bones | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Beef bones | 4+ hours |
| Fish bones | 30 – 45 minutes |
Compared to slow cookers (which take 24-48 hours), pressure cookers dramatically cut down cooking time while preserving nutrients.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Soften Bones in a Pressure Cooker Perfectly
Ingredients & Tools Needed
✅ Bones (chicken, beef, or fish)
✅ Water (enough to cover the bones by 1-2 inches)
✅ Apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp per quart of water)
✅ Pressure cooker (Instant Pot, stovetop, or electric model)
✅ Optional spices (if making broth)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Bones – Rinse bones and place them in the pressure cooker.
- Add Liquid – Pour in enough water to cover the bones by 1-2 inches.
- Add Apple Cider Vinegar – Helps dissolve minerals and soften bones faster.
- Seal the Cooker & Set Pressure –
- High pressure: Best for breaking down hard bones quickly.
- Low pressure: Can be used but requires extended cooking.
- Cook According to Bone Type (refer to the timing chart above).
- Natural Pressure Release – Allow the cooker to release pressure naturally for best results.
- Test Softness – Use a potato masher to check if bones easily crumble. If not, cook for another 30-60 minutes.
Why Soften Bones in a Pressure Cooker?
Softened bones aren’t just easier to work with—they come with multiple benefits:
🔥 Nutritional Benefits – Increases collagen, calcium, and minerals in the broth.
🐶 Safer for Pets – Softened bones prevent splintering, making them digestible.
💰 More Efficient Broth Extraction – Results in richer, thicker broth.
⏳ Faster Than Stovetop & Slow Cooker – Saves hours of cooking time.
Expert Tips for Perfectly Softened Bones
💡 Use high pressure for best results.
💡 Pre-soak bones in vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.
💡 Re-cook stubborn bones for an additional 30-60 minutes if needed.
💡 Strain the broth carefully to remove any small bone fragments.
💡 Use a potato masher to test if the bones have fully softened.
FAQs About How to Soften Bones in a Pressure Cooker
Q1. Can bones become soft enough to eat?
Yes! Chicken and fish bones can become soft and edible, while beef bones break down but may not be entirely chewable.
Q2. Is it safe to feed softened bones to dogs?
Yes, but ensure they are fully softened to prevent any choking hazards.
Q3. Does vinegar change the taste of broth?
Only slightly—it helps extract more nutrients but won’t overpower the flavor.
Q4. Can I use a slow cooker instead?
Yes, but expect 24-48 hours of cooking time, compared to 2-4 hours in a pressure cooker.
Q5. Why are my bones still hard after cooking?
You may need to:
- Extend cooking time
- Increase pressure settings
- Add more vinegar for mineral breakdown
Final Thoughts
Softening bones in a pressure cooker is a fast, efficient, and nutrient-rich method for making bone broth, pet food, or simply getting the most out of your ingredients. With the right timing, pressure settings, and acid addition, you can break down even the toughest bones in under 4 hours—a huge improvement over traditional methods!
🚀 Ready to try it? Grab your pressure cooker and start making the richest, healthiest broth today! 🍲