I’m always looking for simple ways to add a little extra goodness to Nalla’s diet, and these gut-supportive bone broth and turmeric gelatin squares hit the spot. They’re so easy to whip up, and Nalla absolutely loves the jiggly texture. It’s a fantastic way to offer a wholesome treat without any fuss.
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Ingredients
- [ ] 2 cups (480 ml) unsalted bone broth, no onion or garlic
- [ ] 1/4 cup (28 g) unflavored gelatin powder
- [ ] 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground turmeric
- [ ] 1/8 teaspoon (0.3 g) ground black pepper
Instructions
- Gently warm 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) of the bone broth in a saucepan over low heat until warm, not boiling.
- In a separate small bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder over the remaining 1/2 cup (120 ml) of cool bone broth and let it “bloom” for 5 minutes.
- Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the warm broth in the saucepan, stirring continuously until the gelatin is fully dissolved and no lumps remain.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the ground turmeric and ground black pepper until well combined.
- Carefully pour the mixture into an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square pan or silicone molds.
- Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until the gelatin is completely set and firm.
- Once set, cut the gelatin into 1-inch (2.5 cm) squares or pop them out of the molds.
Nalla’s verdict
Nalla is usually pretty picky with new treats, but these were an instant hit. The moment she saw them jiggle, her tail started thumping! She gobbled them right up, and I think she even tried to sneak a second one off the counter. Definitely a win in her book!
Our Pick: Tools Used in This Recipe
What I actually use at home when cooking for Nalla:
- OXO Good Grips 8×8 Glass Baking Dish with Lid — Sturdy borosilicate glass, fits perfectly in the fridge. Perfect for setting these gelatin squares without any plastic taste transferring to the broth. View on Amazon
- Silicone Ice Cube Tray Molds (Large, 1-inch) — Flexible silicone makes it easy to pop out individual gelatin squares without breaking them. Great for portion control. View on Amazon
- Whisks Set, Stainless Steel (3-pack) — A good whisk is essential for blending in the gelatin without lumps. I keep a small one just for Nalla’s recipes. View on Amazon
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FAQ
Are bone broth and turmeric safe for dogs?
Plain, unsalted bone broth without onion or garlic is generally safe and can be beneficial for dogs. Turmeric, in small amounts, is also considered safe, especially when paired with a tiny bit of black pepper to aid absorption. Always confirm with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or ingredients, particularly if your dog has existing health conditions.
How should I store homemade gelatin squares for my dog?
These gut-supportive gelatin squares should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will typically last for up to 7-10 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months, thawing them in the fridge before serving to your pup.
What is a good portion size for these turmeric gelatin treats?
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For small dogs (under 20 lbs), one small square might be enough. Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) could have 1-2 squares, and large dogs (50+ lbs) up to 2-3 squares. Adjust based on your dog’s activity level and overall diet.
Portion guide
- Small: 1-2 squares per day
- Medium: 2-3 squares per day
- Large: 3-4 squares per day
Storage
Store leftover gelatin squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Safety note
Ensure the bone broth is plain, unsalted, and free from onion, garlic, or other harmful additives. Turmeric and black pepper are generally safe for dogs in small amounts; black pepper aids in turmeric absorption but should be used sparingly. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new ingredients, especially if your dog has health conditions or is on medication.