Brunswick Stew
A hearty, smoky Southern classic packed with tender pulled pork, shredded chicken, corn, and lima beans. This rich, tomato-based stew is slow-simmered for deep flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food.
For 6 servings
4 steps. 75 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Melt the butter or bacon drippings in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Build the Stew Base
- b.Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and hot sauce. Stir well to combine.
- c.Add the diced potatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a steady simmer.
- d.Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nearly tender when pierced with a fork.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add Meats and Vegetables
- b.Stir in the shredded chicken, pulled pork, frozen corn, and frozen lima beans.
- c.Increase the heat to bring the stew back to a gentle simmer.
- d.Once it begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 40-50 minutes. Stir every 10 minutes to prevent sticking at the bottom.
- e.The stew is ready when it has thickened to a rich, gravy-like consistency and the flavors have melded.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finalize and Serve
- b.Remove the pot from the heat. Taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want more salt, pepper, or a dash more hot sauce or vinegar for brightness.
- c.Let the stew rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.
- d.Ladle the hot stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
- 2For the best flavor, use a combination of meats. Leftover BBQ pulled pork is perfect for this recipe.
- 3Don't rush the final simmer. This uncovered cooking time is crucial for the stew to develop its signature rich, thick consistency.
- 4Use bacon drippings instead of butter for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- 5The stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- 6For a tangier stew, add a splash more apple cider vinegar at the end. For more sweetness, a touch more brown sugar can be added.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Variations
Substitute or add other smoked meats like beef brisket or smoked turkey for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable AdditionsVegetable Additions
Incorporate 1 cup of sliced okra or cut green beans along with the corn and lima beans for extra vegetables.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add a minced jalapeño or a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the garlic for an extra kick of heat.
Slow Cooker MethodSlow Cooker Method
Sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then transfer all ingredients (except parsley) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
With a generous amount of chicken and pork, this stew is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Fiber
The lima beans, corn, and potatoes contribute a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and supports overall gut health.
Provides Key Nutrients
This stew offers a range of vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C and lycopene, while the meats provide B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which are vital for energy production and a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Brunswick Stew is a hearty and filling meal that provides a good source of protein and fiber from the meats and beans. However, it can be high in sodium and sugar, depending on the BBQ sauce and broth used. To make it healthier, opt for low-sodium broth and a BBQ sauce with less added sugar.