Southern Brunswick Stew is a rich and hearty dish traditionally made with a mix of meats, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. This comforting stew is perfect for chilly days or when you crave a satisfying meal. Our version features rotisserie chicken, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a blend of spices that make it irresistibly delicious. Let’s dive into this classic recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter or bacon grease
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Fresh ground pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 3 tablespoons chili sauce (optional)
- 1 rotisserie chicken, meat shredded
- 1 (28-ounce) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups low-salt chicken broth
- 1½ cups frozen sweet corn
- 1½ cups frozen lima beans
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 3-5 dashes hot sauce, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the Vegetables:
- Dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the meat from the rotisserie chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Butter or Bacon Grease:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter or bacon grease over medium heat.
- Add Onion and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Liquids
- Add Spices:
- Stir in the cayenne pepper and fresh ground pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add Sauces:
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, and chili sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Vegetables
- Add Shredded Chicken:
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Add Corn and Lima Beans:
- Stir in the frozen sweet corn and frozen lima beans.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
- Bring to a Simmer:
- Bring the stew to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Reduce Heat and Cook:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Finish the Stew
- Add Lemon Juice and Hot Sauce:
- Stir in the juice of half a lemon and 3-5 dashes of hot sauce, to taste.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the Brunswick Stew into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish with your favorite sides or on its own.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Meat: Feel free to add other meats such as pulled pork or beef for extra richness.
- Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like diced potatoes or carrots for additional texture and flavor.
- Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to control the spiciness of the stew.
Variations
Smoked Meat Brunswick Stew
- Add Smoked Meat:
- Substitute the rotisserie chicken with smoked chicken or smoked pork for a deeper flavor.
Vegetarian Brunswick Stew
- Omit Meat:
- Substitute the chicken with more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and extra beans for a vegetarian version.
Brunswick Stew with Potatoes
- Add Potatoes:
- Add 2 cups of diced potatoes to the stew for a heartier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Cornbread:
- Serve with homemade cornbread or cornbread muffins for a classic Southern meal.
- With Salad:
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Beverages
- With Sweet Tea:
- Enjoy with a glass of Southern sweet tea or iced tea for a refreshing combination.
- With Beer:
- Pair with a cold beer for a perfect match.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time? A: Yes, Brunswick Stew often tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this stew? A: Yes, you can freeze Brunswick Stew. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh corn and lima beans. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender.
Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can prepare the stew in a slow cooker. Sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Southern Brunswick Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich combination of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, this classic stew is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, this stew is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal with your family and friends!
