Brunswick Stew is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a family meal. This version combines tender pork and chicken with a medley of vegetables and a flavorful broth, making it a one-pot wonder that’s both filling and delicious.
- Cuisine: Southern
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation with minimal clean-up makes it ideal for busy nights.
- The combination of meat and vegetables ensures a balanced meal in every bowl.
- Adjustable spice levels to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons (3-ounces) unsalted butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped onion: Adds aroma and depth to the stew.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Enhances the flavor with its sharpness and warmth.
- 3 cups diced potatoes: Thickens the stew and contributes a hearty texture.
- 1 1/2 cups frozen baby lima beans: Offers a creamy contrast and nutritional boost; can substitute with regular lima beans.
- 2 cups frozen corn kernels: Adds sweetness and color; canned or fresh corn can be used.
- 3 cups chicken stock: Forms the base of the broth, lending a savory depth.
- 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and body to the stew.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, more to taste: Infuses the stew with a smoky sweetness; substitute with apple cider vinegar for a tangier stew.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar, optional: Balances the acidity from tomatoes and barbecue sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt, more to taste: Seasoning essential for bringing out the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, more to taste: Provides subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, more to taste: Adds a spicy kick; adjust to preference.
- 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken thighs: Rich and moist protein source; can use breast if preferred.
- 2 cups shredded, cooked pulled pork: Adds smoky richness; smoked pork can deepen flavor.
- Cornbread or biscuits, for serving: Optional accompaniment to soak up the stew’s broth.
- Coleslaw, for serving, optional: Adds a fresh and crunchy contrast.
How to Make It
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, cooking until they turn translucent, about 3 minutes. This step develops a sweet and aromatic base. Stir in the garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance and enhance the onion flavor.
Step 2: Build the Stew Base
Add the diced potatoes, lima beans, corn, chicken stock, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This method gently cooks the vegetables, infusing the broth with their flavors.
Step 3: Enrich and Combine
Stir in the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, if using, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the shredded chicken and pork, mixing well to incorporate and heat through. Cover and simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and enhance the stew’s complexity.
Step 4: Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, optionally alongside cornbread or biscuits, with coleslaw on the side for a refreshing balance. The stew’s flavors will continue to develop, making it ideal for leftovers.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables for the frozen ones in this recipe. Just ensure they’re cut into similar sizes to cook evenly. Adjust the simmering time if necessary to account for slightly longer cooking needed for fresh vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the stew gently over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock if it has thickened too much.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely. Brunswick Stew’s flavors often improve after a day in the fridge, as the ingredients have more time to meld. Prepare the stew up to a day in advance, then reheat slowly on the stove before serving.
