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
- 1–2 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
- 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