Brunswick stew
Southern Brunswick stew is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Southerners. This hearty and savory stew is made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth. It’s a favorite dish for gatherings like backyard barbecues, family reunions, church picnics, and other outdoor events.
One of the hallmarks of Southern Brunswick stew is the use of smoked meats. Traditionally, the stew is made with chicken or pork that has been smoked to add a distinct flavor to the dish. In many parts of the South, rabbit or squirrel are also added to the mix, making for a truly unique flavor. The meat is then combined with vegetables like lima beans, okra, corn, and tomatoes, which are cooked until they are tender and infused with the smoky flavors of the meat.
The origins of Southern Brunswick stew are somewhat murky, with several states claiming to be the birthplace of the dish. Some historians believe that the stew originated in Brunswick County, Virginia, in the 19th century, while others claim that it was first made in Georgia. Regardless of where it began, the dish has become an iconic Southern recipe that is celebrated throughout the region.
Cooking Southern Brunswick stew is a labor of love. The stew requires several hours of simmering to develop its rich flavors and tender textures. Home cooks often start by cooking the smoked meats in a large pot of water until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. The meats are then removed from the pot and shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.
Next, the vegetables are added to the pot, along with the shredded meat and a flavorful broth made with tomato sauce, chicken or beef stock, and a variety of seasonings like smoky paprika, garlic, and chili powder. The stew simmers on low heat for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich, savory dish.
In some parts of the South, cornbread is served alongside Southern Brunswick stew, as the bread provides a perfect complement to the hearty dish. Some cooks even add crumbled cornbread to the stew itself, making for a thick and satisfying meal.
Southern Brunswick stew is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit individual tastes. For those who prefer a spicier stew, extra chili powder or hot sauce can be added to the mix. Others may prefer a milder dish that highlights the smoky flavors of the meat and vegetables.
Overall, Southern Brunswick stew is a delicious and satisfying dish that is a perfect representation of Southern cooking. It’s a dish that brings people together to share in the joy of good food and good company, and a recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
-1 lb. boneless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded -1 lb. pulled pork, cooked -1 large onion, chopped -4 cloves of garlic, minced -4 cups of chicken broth -1 (28 oz.) can of diced tomatoes -1 (15 oz.) can of tomato sauce -2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce -1 tbsp. smoked paprika -1 tbsp. chili powder -1 tsp. garlic powder -1 tsp. onion powder -½ tsp. salt -½ tsp. black pepper -2 cups of fresh or frozen corn -2 cups of fresh or frozen lima beans -1 cup of okra, chopped -1 cup of barbecue sauce
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the shredded chicken, pulled pork, corn, lima beans, and okra. Reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the barbecue sauce to the pot and cook for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.
Enjoy your Southern Brunswick stew!