As we write this, Mumbai rains are in full swing. Once the ritual of chai and pakoras was ticked off, a different craving set in — something deeper, a culinary treat that could warm the heart and nourish the body. That’s when we remembered the bottles tucked away in the fridge, delivered neatly packed last week. Sleek, vibrant and stylish, they looked like they’d come straight off a trendy bar shelf, but instead of cocktails, they carried comfort. These were broths from The Broth Bar, a delivery-first brand that calls itself, ‘Your Sober Liquid Courage’. About that later.

Each broth is simmered for 18 hours before being packed

We popped the bottle into the microwave as instructed and let another one heat on the stove. In less than two minutes, the kitchen filled with a rich, aromatic steam. Our chosen variant, Chicken Fire Mule (Rs 250) — a Tom Yum-inspired infusion, had a bold kick of spice, a citrusy tang that lingers, and a depth of flavour you’d usually associate with slow-cooked meals. The Neat Pour — Classic Goat Broth (Rs 250) was robust and full-bodied, just like how you’d make it at home, slow-simmered with bones, earthy spices, and fresh aromatics. The result is a deeply nourishing, collagen-rich pour with a rustic depth of flavour. The Basil Smash — Chicken Thai Basil Broth (Rs 250) is fragrant and slightly peppery with herbs lacing the chicken base with a sweet-spicy lift. The Root Tonic–Veggie Celery Garlic Broth (Rs 220) is light yet layered, with the green freshness of celery and the mellow warmth of slow-roasted garlic that hugs you gently from the inside.