I've been using a fine mesh strainer for skimming scum. Today I tried the large metal spoon method suggested by Susan and gave the skimmings to my dog. Works for both of us. :)
i learned this on youtube on asian cooking. simmer (they boil) meat/bones for 10 minutes starting in cold water. dump water and wash off meat/bones in cold water, getting all scum off. wash or use clean pan and start over in cold water. when scum rises, uses a very fine mesh strainer, about 3 inches in diameter, and scoop out all of the scum. i think i got my strainer at the dollar store. this is how the viet namese get the pho broth so clear. this is a great trick. also, to remove fat, put in freezer or fridge and spoon off in big chunks.
I was just about to offer the exact same advice as ChefOno. After hours of simmering I ladle mine through two chinois with a layer of cheese cloth in between. When making poultry stock I remove as much skin as I can tear off with my fingers as it doesn't improve the flavor in anyway. Refrigerated over night you will probably still have a "fat cap" that is easily removed.
First off, don't boil the stock if you're going to skim. The turbulence created will keep the fat and protein particles in suspension. Barely simmer, uncovered.
Skimming is all about making a clear stock. If you care about that, skim away. And either blanch or roast the meat, bones and skin before beginning (roasting will create much more flavorful results). Start with cold water and bring it *slowly* to a bare simmer. Ladle -- not pour -- off the clear portion of stock, stopping when you hit the murky layer. Then do this: Taste the clarified stock and compare that with the cloudy stuff left in the bottom of the pot. Surprise! That's why I don't clarify my stocks.
Skimming fat and skimming scum are different - for fat, the fridge method works best. But for scum I'm with Susan - I don't think the slotted/perforated spoons are very effective, and they just end up frustrating me, so I also go with a ladle or deep-bowled spoon. My frugal nature resents taking stock or water away from the pot but it makes for a much better product to skim thoroughly.
The very best way is to make the stock a day or two early, put in the fridge, then simply "lift" the fat solids off the top. Otherwise I use a teabag strainer.
I like to use a large metal spoon with a long handle, or even a ladle. Dip the rim of the spoon or ladle slowly below the foam and scoop it up. I do the same method when skimming fat from a stock.
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First off, don't boil the stock if you're going to skim. The turbulence created will keep the fat and protein particles in suspension. Barely simmer, uncovered.
Skimming is all about making a clear stock. If you care about that, skim away. And either blanch or roast the meat, bones and skin before beginning (roasting will create much more flavorful results). Start with cold water and bring it *slowly* to a bare simmer. Ladle -- not pour -- off the clear portion of stock, stopping when you hit the murky layer. Then do this: Taste the clarified stock and compare that with the cloudy stuff left in the bottom of the pot. Surprise! That's why I don't clarify my stocks.
Otherwise I use a teabag strainer.