Kitchen Basics Stock: A More Flavorful Alternative to Broth Stock is a full-flavored liquid prepared by simmering meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables for hours in water with herbs and spices, until their flavor is extracted. Darker in color and more concentrated in flavor than broth, it is ideal for use in soups, sautéing, rice and especially sauces and demi-glace. Stock's more concentrated flavor has a richer, heartier taste – one that serves as the perfect flavor-building ingredient for anything from simple to extravagant culinary creations.