Brunswick stew is a traditional Southern American dish that originated in Brunswick County, Virginia, in the early 19th century. It is a hearty stew that typically includes a combination of vegetables, meats, and sometimes lima beans or corn. The exact ingredients and cooking method can vary, but common components of Brunswick stew include chicken or pork, tomatoes, onions, corn, okra, and sometimes potatoes. The meat is usually cooked and shredded or chopped before being added to the stew, which is then simmered for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Some recipes also call for a tangy barbecue sauce to be added to the stew, which gives it a slightly sweet and smoky flavor. Brunswick stew is often served as a main course or as a side dish with cornbread or crackers. It is a classic comfort food that is especially popular during the cooler months of the year.
SERVINGS: 4
PREPARATION TIME: 2 hours and 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 lb. boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb. boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 lb. bacon, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen lima beans
- 1 cup frozen baby lima beans
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside.
- Add the pork and chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the pork and chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, corn, lima beans, baby lima beans, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the pork and chicken back to the pot, and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir in the cooked bacon and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve over rice or with cornbread.
- Top with additional chopped bacon or chopped green onions or chives for garnish.
- Serve with a side of green vegetables such as steamed broccoli or green beans.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
- You can use other meats such as beef or rabbit in place of pork and chicken.
- You can also use canned or fresh vegetables in place of frozen.
- This stew can be made in a slow cooker by following the same instructions but cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
