Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Ultimate Authentic Southern Brunswick Stew Recipe


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

To truly appreciate this wonderful recipe, it helps to understand what makes Brunswick stew distinct from other standard meat and vegetable stews. Traditional beef stew typically relies on a thick brown gravy made from beef stock and flour, while chili relies heavily on chili powders and ground meats. In contrast, this Southern classic uses a uniquely flavorful liquid base that combines sweet barbecue sauce, rich tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and savory chicken broth.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) pulled chicken, cooked and shredded
  • ½ lb (225 g) pulled pork, cooked and shredded
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) barbecue sauce
  • 2 cups frozen corn
  • 2 cups frozen lima beans
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional
  • 12 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Sauté the aromatics:
    Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Build the stew:
    Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
  • Add the vegetables:
    Stir in the potatoes, corn, and lima beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Simmer:
    Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
  • Add the meat:
    Stir in the shredded chicken and pulled pork. Simmer uncovered for another 15–20 minutes so the flavors can blend and the stew thickens.
  • Taste and adjust:
    Add more barbecue sauce, salt, pepper, or cayenne according to your taste.
  • Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crackers.

Notes

For an authentic Southern touch, serve Brunswick Stew with warm cornbread and extra barbecue sauce on the side. The stew often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1½ cups
  • Calories: 390 kcal

Keywords: Southern Brunswick stew, authentic Brunswick stew, homemade Brunswick stew