If you’re craving a bowl of hearty, soul-warming goodness, look no further than Brunswick Stew — a rich, flavorful Southern dish loaded with tender meat, vegetables, and a smoky, tangy tomato base.
Traditionally made in large outdoor pots to feed a crowd, this recipe is perfectly adapted for your kitchen while keeping all the deep flavors intact.
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Brunswick Stew
Brunswick Stew has its origins debated between Brunswick County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia.
The earliest versions were made with game meat like squirrel or rabbit, but today, chicken, pork, or beef are more common.
The stew is known for its thick texture, slow-cooked flavor, and the way it brings people together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Meats:
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2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great – Rotisserie Oven on Amazon)
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2 cups pulled pork (smoked if possible – try this Electric Smoker for authentic flavor)
Vegetables:
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cups frozen corn
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2 cups frozen lima beans
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2 cups diced potatoes
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2 cups crushed tomatoes
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1 cup tomato sauce
Flavor Boosters:
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2 cups chicken broth (Swanson Chicken Broth on Amazon)
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: A dash of hot sauce for heat
Step-by-Step Brunswick Stew Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Meats
Shred your cooked chicken and pulled pork.
If you’re making pork from scratch, season it and cook low and slow in a smoker or crockpot (Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker is a great option).
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large stockpot (Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stockpot), heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Base
Add your potatoes, corn, lima beans, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Add the Meats and Seasonings
Mix in the shredded chicken and pulled pork. Pour in the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for at least 1 to 2 hours — the longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Brunswick Stew hot with cornbread, biscuits, or over rice. For serving, a sturdy ladle (OXO Good Grips Ladle) makes portioning easy.
Read More: Manhattan clam chowder recipe
Tips for the Best Brunswick Stew
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Use smoked meats for a richer flavor profile.
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Thicken naturally by letting the stew simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes.
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Make ahead — it tastes even better the next day.
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Freeze leftovers in airtight containers (Glass Meal Prep Containers) for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Brunswick Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all ingredients to a slow cooker, set to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, and stir occasionally for even cooking.
2. Can I use beef instead of pork?
Absolutely. Beef brisket or shredded chuck roast works well and gives the stew a richer, heartier taste.
3. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the meat with plant-based protein like jackfruit or soy crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. Can I make Brunswick Stew ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s actually better the next day because the flavors deepen overnight. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
5. Is Brunswick Stew supposed to be thick?
Yes, it should be thick and hearty, not soupy. If yours is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce.
6. Can I freeze Brunswick Stew?
Yes! Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove for best texture.
7. What can I serve with Brunswick Stew?
Cornbread, biscuits, or even a simple grilled cheese sandwich make great sides.
8. Can I use canned vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, but add them later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
9. What gives Brunswick Stew its smoky flavor?
Smoked meats, smoked paprika, or cooking in a smoker can add that signature flavor.
10. Can I make it spicy?
Yes — add hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños to give it a kick.
