Brunswick Stew

Brunswick Stew

  • Prep time: 10
  • Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8
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Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 squash, diced
  • 2 cups lima beans
  • 4 cups stock
  • 1 cup bbq sauce
  • 1-1/2 cups corn
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 16 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
Nutrition Facts
Serves 8

Description

Brunswick Stew: A Hearty Southern Classic

Overview: Brunswick stew is a beloved and hearty dish that hails from the Southern United States, particularly Virginia and Georgia. This stew has a rich history, often sparking friendly debates about its origins and the “right” way to prepare it. While recipes may vary, the core of Brunswick stew typically includes a combination of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, all slow-cooked to perfection.

Key Ingredients: While there are regional variations, a traditional Brunswick stew often features the following key ingredients:

  1. Meats:

    • Chicken and pork are commonly used, with some recipes incorporating rabbit or other game meats. The meats are usually slow-cooked and then shredded or diced.

  2. Vegetables:

    • The vegetable component typically includes lima beans or butter beans, corn, tomatoes, and okra. Some variations may include potatoes, onions, and carrots.

  3. Broth or Base:

    • Chicken or beef broth is often used as the stew’s base. Tomatoes, whether fresh or canned, contribute to the stew’s thickness and flavor.

  4. Seasonings:

    • Seasonings vary, but common additions include salt, pepper, paprika, and sometimes a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. Worcestershire sauce and vinegar may also be used to enhance the stew’s depth of flavor.

Preparation: While there are many ways to make Brunswick stew, the preparation generally involves the following steps:

  1. Cooking the Meats:

    • Chicken and pork are typically cooked beforehand. This can be done by boiling or roasting the meats until they are tender and easily shredded.

  2. Shredding or Dicing:

    • Once cooked, the meats are shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces.

  3. Vegetable Medley:

    • Lima beans, corn, tomatoes, and other vegetables are added to the pot. The choice of vegetables may vary based on regional preferences.

  4. Slow Simmering:

    • The stew is allowed to simmer slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together. This slow-cooking process is essential for developing the stew’s rich taste and ensuring that the vegetables are tender.

  5. Adjusting Seasonings:

    • Seasonings are added gradually, and the stew is tasted and adjusted as needed. This step is crucial to achieving a well-balanced and flavorful Brunswick stew.

  6. Serving:

    • Brunswick stew is typically served hot, often with a side of cornbread. It is a favorite for communal gatherings, picnics, and family events.

Regional Variations: Given its long history and widespread popularity, there are numerous regional variations of Brunswick stew. Some recipes may include barbecue sauce or use different combinations of meats, reflecting local tastes and traditions.

Conclusion: Brunswick stew embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, a family reunion, or a community event, this hearty stew brings people together around the table. With its comforting blend of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, Brunswick stew remains a cherished and timeless dish in the culinary tapestry of the American South.

Instructions

  • 1. Melt butter in large pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat.
  • 2. Suate onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another minute.
  • 3. Add tomatoes followed by stock and remaining vegetables. Bring to boil and reduce heat to simmer. Continue cooking 20 minutes until potatoes are cooked through.
  • 4. Add bbq sauce, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer 1 hour.