Boise's Bone Broth: City Tap Stealing Collagen?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 16, 2026

It’s no secret that Boiseans are obsessed with health and wellness. From hiking the foothills to hitting up the local farmers market, we’re all about feeling our best. But sometimes, even with the best intentions, we need a little extra boost. That’s where collagen comes in, and City Tap’s bone broth is the perfect, locally-sourced solution.

Collagen, the protein responsible for skin elasticity, joint health, and gut integrity, naturally declines as we age. While supplements abound, incorporating collagen-rich foods like bone broth is a delicious and effective way to combat this decline. And for those of us in Boise, City Tap offers a fantastic, flavorful, and convenient option.

City Tap, a local brewery and taproom, also crafts exceptional bone broth. They offer several varieties, typically including:

• Classic Beef Bone Broth: A rich, savory broth made from grass-fed beef bones.
• Chicken Bone Broth: A lighter, more delicate broth perfect for sipping or using in soups.
• Rotating Seasonal Broths: Keep an eye out for unique flavors like turkey or even vegetable-based broths, depending on the time of year.

The beauty of City Tap’s bone broth lies in its versatility. It seamlessly integrates into various dietary lifestyles popular in Boise.

Keto: Bone broth is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal addition to a ketogenic diet. It helps replenish electrolytes, often depleted during the initial stages of keto, and provides essential amino acids.

Paleo: As a whole-food source of collagen and nutrients, bone broth aligns perfectly with the paleo diet’s emphasis on ancestral eating. It supports gut health, which is crucial for overall well-being on a paleo lifestyle.

Whole30: Bone broth is a compliant and nourishing option for those following the Whole30 program. It provides a comforting and flavorful base for soups and stews, helping to satisfy cravings and support the body during the elimination phase.

Vegetarian/Pescatarian: While traditional bone broth is not vegetarian, City Tap sometimes offers vegetable-based broths that can provide similar benefits, albeit without the collagen. Pescatarians can explore incorporating fish collagen supplements alongside the vegetable broth.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff: how to actually use City Tap’s bone broth to maximize collagen absorption. It’s not just about sipping it straight (though that’s perfectly acceptable!).

Recipe 1: Keto-Friendly Creamy Tomato Soup with Bone Broth

This recipe is a Boise winter staple, perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes at Bogus Basin.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups City Tap Beef Bone Broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add crushed tomatoes and City Tap Beef Bone Broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Collagen Boost: The beef bone broth provides a significant collagen boost, while the healthy fats from the olive oil and heavy cream aid in absorption.

Recipe 2: Paleo-Approved Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Bone Broth Glaze

This quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight meal, showcasing the fresh produce available at the Boise Co-op.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup City Tap Chicken Bone Broth
• 1 tbsp coconut aminos (soy sauce alternative)
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut oil in a wok or large skillet.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together City Tap Chicken Bone Broth, coconut aminos, and ginger.
5. Pour the glaze over the stir-fry and cook until thickened.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Collagen Boost: The chicken bone broth adds depth of flavor and a dose of collagen, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Recipe 3: Bone Broth “Golden Milk” Latte

This warm and comforting beverage is perfect for a chilly Boise morning, especially after a run along the Greenbelt.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup City Tap Chicken Bone Broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp ginger powder
• Pinch of black pepper
• Optional: Honey or maple syrup to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Heat over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
3. Whisk until frothy.
4. Pour into a mug and enjoy.

Collagen Boost: The chicken bone broth provides collagen, while turmeric and ginger offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Black pepper enhances the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:

• Not Heating Bone Broth Properly: Heating bone broth gently is crucial to preserve its nutrients. Avoid boiling it vigorously, as this can degrade the collagen. Simmering is ideal.
• Ignoring the Source: The quality of the bones used to make bone broth matters. City Tap uses high-quality, locally-sourced bones, ensuring a nutrient-rich product. Be wary of cheaper, mass-produced options.
• Not Combining with Vitamin C: Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis. Pair your bone broth with foods rich in Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, or leafy greens. A squeeze of lemon in your bone broth latte is a simple way to boost absorption.
• Expecting Instant Results: Collagen production is a gradual process. Don’t expect to see dramatic results overnight. Consistency is key. Incorporate bone broth into your diet regularly for optimal benefits.
• Overlooking Individual Needs: Everyone’s body is different. Pay attention to how your body responds to bone broth and adjust your intake accordingly. Some people may experience digestive discomfort if they consume too much bone broth initially. Start with small amounts and gradually increase as tolerated.

Challenges and Pitfalls:

• Taste Preferences: Bone broth has a distinct flavor that some people may find off-putting. Experiment with different recipes and seasonings to find ways to make it more palatable. Adding herbs, spices, or vegetables can help mask the flavor.
• Availability: While City Tap is a great local option, their bone broth may not always be readily available. Check their website or call ahead to confirm availability. Consider purchasing in bulk to ensure you always have some on hand.
• Cost: High-quality bone broth can be more expensive than other broth options. However, the health benefits and superior flavor make it a worthwhile investment. Look for sales or promotions to save money.

By incorporating City Tap’s bone broth into your diet, Boise residents can enjoy a delicious and convenient way to boost collagen levels and support overall health. Remember to choose high-quality broth, combine it with Vitamin C, and be patient. With a little creativity and consistency, you can reap the many benefits of this nourishing food. So, head down to City Tap, grab a growler of their bone broth, and start cooking your way to better health!