Brunswick Stew

Warm up your taste buds with this hearty and flavorful recipe for Brunswick Stew, a Southern classic that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Packed with tender pulled smoked pork, succulent diced chicken, and a medley of vegetables, this stew is a comforting bowl of goodness.

The rich and savory broth, infused with barbecue sauce, tomato paste, and a hint of spice, creates a depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this Brunswick Stew is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So grab your favorite pot and get ready to savor every spoonful of this delicious Southern comfort food.

Brunswick Stew

Ingredients:

1 ½ tablespoons canola oil

1 large onion finely chopped

2 cloves garlic minced

2 ¼ cup low sodium chicken broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 can (14.5 ounce) fire roasted diced tomatoes

1 ½ cups frozen corn

1 ½ cups frozen lima beans

¾ cup barbecue sauce plus more for drizzling

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 ½ teaspoons hot sauce

¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper

1–2 pinches of cayenne pepper

2 ½ cups pulled smoked pork

1 ½ cups cooked diced chicken breast or chicken thighs (smoked or roasted)

Instructions:

Step 1:

Heat oil over medium heat in a dutch oven or heavy stock pot.

Add the onion and cook until tender; 5-6 minutes.

Reduce heat and add the minced garlic cooking for 1 minute while stirring constantly.

Step 2:

In a small bowl stir the tomato paste with 1/4 cup of chicken broth then pour it into the pot.

Add the remaining chicken broth, diced tomatoes, frozen corn, lima beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, ground black pepper, crushed red pepper, and cayenne pepper to the pot over medium-high heat.

Bring to a low boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 3:

Add the smoked pork and chicken and let it simmer for about 5 more minutes.

If desired season the stew with salt and more pepper to taste.

Spoon into bowls and drizzle with just a little bit more barbecue sauce.

Notes:

Base Ingredients: Canola oil serves as the cooking medium, while onion and garlic provide aromatic depth and flavor to the stew.

Broth and Tomatoes: Low-sodium chicken broth forms the base of the stew, providing a savory liquid for the vegetables and meats. Tomato paste and fire-roasted diced tomatoes add richness and acidity to the broth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Vegetables: Frozen corn and lima beans contribute sweetness and texture to the stew, adding freshness and color to each spoonful.

Flavor Enhancers: Barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and a blend of spices (black pepper, crushed red pepper, and cayenne pepper) elevate the stew’s flavor profile, imparting smoky, tangy, and spicy notes.

Proteins: Pulled smoked pork and diced cooked chicken provide heartiness and protein to the stew, infusing it with rich, meaty flavor. Smoked or roasted meats add depth and complexity to the dish.

Cooking Process: Sautéing the onion and garlic in oil creates a flavorful base for the stew. Incorporating the tomato paste mixture and remaining broth, along with the vegetables and flavor enhancers, allows the flavors to meld together during simmering.

Finishing Touches: Simmering the stew allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. Adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste adds balance and depth of flavor. Drizzling extra barbecue sauce over the stew before serving enhances its visual appeal and adds a final touch of smoky sweetness.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh corn and lima beans instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can substitute fresh corn and lima beans for the frozen ones.

Adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?

Absolutely, you can use alternative cooking oils like vegetable or olive oil based on your preference.

How spicy is this stew with the addition of hot sauce and cayenne pepper?

The spiciness can be adjusted to your liking.

Start with the recommended amounts, taste, and add more if desired.

Is there a vegetarian version of Brunswick Stew?

Yes, you can omit the smoked pork and chicken, and enhance the vegetable ingredients for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Definitely! Brunswick Stew often tastes even better the next day.

Refrigerate leftovers and reheat before serving.

Can I use a different type of oil besides canola oil for cooking?

Certainly, you can substitute canola oil with alternatives like vegetable or olive oil based on your preference.

Can I use fresh corn and lima beans instead of frozen ones?

Yes, fresh corn and lima beans can be used as a substitute.

Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this stew with the addition of hot sauce and cayenne pepper?

The spiciness can be adjusted to taste.

Begin with the suggested amounts and add more if desired.

Can I make Brunswick Stew ahead of time and reheat it?

Absolutely, this stew reheats well.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of Brunswick Stew?

Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the smoked pork and chicken, enhancing the vegetable ingredients.