Brunswick Stew Recipe
Brunswick Stew Recipe
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – for a rich, velvety base
1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup) – adds natural sweetness and depth
3 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic flavor
1 (32-ounce) carton low-sodium chicken broth (4 cups) – provides a savory foundation
1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups) – creamy and hearty
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices – adds brightness and tang
1 cup frozen lima beans – classic Southern touch, earthy and buttery
1 cup frozen corn kernels – for sweetness and texture
1 pound shredded pulled pork (about 2 cups) – tender and smoky protein
1/4 cup tomato-based barbecue sauce, plus more as needed – gives the stew bold, tangy richness
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – balances flavors with subtle acidity
1 tablespoon smoked paprika – infuses a warm, smoky note
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – for umami depth
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste – enhances all flavors
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed – gentle spice and warmth
Light brown sugar (optional) – to mellow acidity and round out flavors
Instructions
Sauté the aromatics
In a Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
Build the stew base
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced potatoes, canned tomatoes with their juices, lima beans, and corn.
Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer the vegetables
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Incorporate the meats and seasonings
Stir in the shredded pulled pork, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Return the stew to a steady simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the broth to thicken slightly.
Adjust and finish
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as desired — adding a touch of brown sugar for balance, more barbecue sauce for tang and depth, or extra salt and pepper to sharpen the flavor.