Hearty Brunswick Stew: A Comforting Family Favorite
These cozy bowls of Brunswick Stew are packed with tender pulled pork, hearty vegetables, and a smoky barbecue flavor that warms your soul. Ready in just over an hour and perfect for any gathering, this dish brings family and friends together for a nourishing meal.
There’s something special about a pot of stew bubbling on the stove, filling the air with its savory aroma. My grandmother used to make Brunswick Stew every Sunday after church. The whole family would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of this delicious comfort food. It’s a tradition I cherish and one I want to share with you.
Why Try This Cozy Recipe?
Brunswick Stew is a tried-and-true comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Not only is it easy to make, but it also combines wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal everyone will love. This recipe serves about six people, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Let’s Get Cooking Brunswick Stew
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Hearty Brunswick Stew
- Total Time: 100 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A comforting family favorite packed with tender pulled pork, hearty vegetables, and smoky barbecue flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes (undrained)
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce
- 2 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds smoked pulled pork (or chicken)
- 8 oz. frozen corn
- 8 oz. frozen lima beans
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Once melted, add the garlic and onions, sautéing them until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken stock, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, smoked pork, lima beans, corn, and salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Let it simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
Notes
Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables like green beans or potatoes. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients:
- 4 Tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes (undrained)
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (I used Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 2 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds smoked pulled pork (or chicken)
- 8 oz. frozen corn
- 8 oz. frozen lima beans
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions:
- Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Once melted, add the garlic and onions, sautéing them until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken stock, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, smoked pork, lima beans, corn, and salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
Serving Your Hearty Brunswick Stew
Serve this nostalgic stew warm, ladled generously into bowls. It pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping! Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color, if desired.
Storing Your Delicious Stew
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It also freezes well, so you can save some for later. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Tips for Perfect Brunswick Stew
- Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables like green beans or potatoes.
- For more depth of flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken in place of smoked pork.
Variations to Explore
This versatile stew allows for endless adaptations. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also make it vegetarian by swapping the smoked pork for lentils or extra beans.
FAQs
1. Can I make Brunswick Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just follow the same steps up to adding the ingredients. Transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
2. How can I make this stew healthier?
You can reduce the barbecue sauce and use low-sodium chicken stock. Adding more vegetables will also boost the nutrition!
3. What sides go well with Brunswick Stew?
Cornbread is a classic choice, but you can also serve it with a simple green salad or coleslaw for added crunch.
Embrace the flavors of home with this delightful Brunswick Stew recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment to gather around the table and reconnect with loved ones. Enjoy the warmth!