Brunswick Stew

Brunswick Stew is a true taste of the South, a warm and comforting dish brimming with rich barbecue flavors, tender smoked meats, and a medley of hearty vegetables. It's the kind of stew that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients

• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the base of the stew.
• Onion, chopped: Provides a savory base for the stew.
• Garlic, finely chopped: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
• Frozen corn, lima beans, and okra: A medley of vegetables that adds sweetness and texture.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Adds a tangy, acidic element.
• Chicken broth: Provides a flavorful liquid base.
• Barbecue sauce: Adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami.
• Hot sauce: Adds a touch of heat.
• Ground black pepper and cayenne pepper: Adds a warm, spicy note.
• Cooked pulled chicken, pulled pork, and beef brisket: A combination of smoked meats that provides a rich, savory flavor.

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Cooking Instructions

Stovetop Method:

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat butter in a large soup pot over medium high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it begins to brown. Add the finely chopped garlic, stir, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients:

Add the diced tomatoes, chicken stock, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, barbecue sauce, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, cooked pulled chicken, cooked pulled pork, and cooked beef brisket. Mix well to combine.

Simmer:

Bring the stew to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Slow Cooker Method:

Combine Ingredients:

Add all the ingredients to a 6 quart or larger slow cooker. Mix well.

Cook:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5 hours or on high heat for 3 hours.

Instant Pot Method:

Sauté Aromatics:

Set the Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add the butter, and once hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté for a few minutes until they begin to brown. Stir in the garlic and cook for one to two minutes. Turn off the pressure cooker.

Combine Ingredients:

Add all the remaining ingredients to the pressure cooker and stir well.

Pressure Cook:

Seal the lid, press the manual or pressure cook button, and set the timer to 5 minutes on high pressure. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build up. When the timer is up, allow a 10 minute natural pressure release.

Adding More Variety:

• Add diced potatoes for a thicker, heartier stew.
• Incorporate other vegetables, such as bell peppers, green beans, or sweet potatoes.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stew with warm cornbread or biscuits.

Pair it with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Serve with a side of coleslaw.

Variations

• Use different combinations of smoked meats, such as sausage or ham.
• Substitute different types of beans, such as pinto beans or black beans.
• Use homemade barbecue sauce for a more personalized flavor.

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

This Brunswick Stew is a flexible and easy way to create a comforting and flavorful meal, perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use just one type of meat for this Brunswick Stew?

Absolutely! While traditional Brunswick Stew uses a combination of meats for complex flavor, you can simplify by using 6 cups of just one type - either pulled chicken, pulled pork, or chopped brisket. The stew will still be delicious, just with a slightly different flavor profile.

→ Where can I find pre-cooked meats for this stew?

For this Brunswick Stew, you can use rotisserie chicken for the pulled chicken. Many grocery stores and barbecue restaurants sell prepared pulled pork and chopped brisket. You can also use leftovers from previous meals, or cook the meats ahead of time specifically for this recipe.

→ Can I substitute any of the vegetables in Brunswick Stew?

This stew is quite flexible! If you don't have lima beans, you can substitute butter beans or edamame. Not a fan of okra? Simply leave it out or add more corn. Some cooks also add diced potatoes or bell peppers to their Brunswick Stew for additional texture and flavor.

→ What type of barbecue sauce works best for Brunswick Stew?

Use your favorite barbecue sauce for this Brunswick Stew - the flavor will significantly impact the final taste. A sweet and smoky sauce works well for a traditional Southern flavor, while a tangy vinegar-based sauce will give more zing. For extra heat, choose a spicy barbecue sauce and add the full 2 teaspoons of hot sauce.

→ What's the best way to serve Brunswick Stew?

Brunswick Stew is hearty enough to serve as a main dish. It pairs perfectly with cornbread, biscuits, or a slice of buttered toast. For a complete Southern meal, serve with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad. Some people enjoy adding a dash of additional hot sauce or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top just before serving.