01 - Place clean, well-washed vegetable scraps in a large stockpot.
02 - Pour in 8 cups of water. Add bay leaf and, if desired, peppercorns, fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt.
03 - Bring contents to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and maintain a gentle simmer uncovered for 1 to 2 hours.
04 - Pour the broth through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids. Allow to cool before transferring to jars or airtight containers for storage.