Brunswick Stew
A hearty and flavorful tomato-based stew featuring tender pulled pork and a medley of vegetables, traditionally served as a quintessential Southern BBQ side dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Pulled pork(Pre-cooked, shredded or chopped. Leftover BBQ pulled pork is ideal.)
- 28 oz Crushed tomatoes(Undrained)
- 2 cups Frozen lima beans(Thawed)
- 2 cups Frozen corn kernels(Thawed)
- 2 medium Potatoes(Peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce(Your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups Chicken or vegetable broth(Low sodium recommended)
- 1 medium Onion(Finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(Minced)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Salt(Or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper(Or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity), heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add the crushed tomatoes, pulled pork, BBQ sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
⏱️ 1 hour - 4
Add the diced potatoes, thawed lima beans, and thawed corn kernels to the stew. Stir to incorporate. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the vegetables are heated through. Stir more frequently during this stage to prevent sticking.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 5
Taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a splash more BBQ sauce or Worcestershire sauce to achieve your desired flavor profile. If the stew is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Serve hot. Brunswick stew is excellent as a side dish for any barbecue, or it can be served as a hearty main course with cornbread or crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an even richer flavor, allow the stew to rest overnight in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully.
- ✓The 'true' origin of Brunswick Stew is a subject of much debate between Virginia and Georgia. Enjoy it regardless of its birthplace!
- ✓Using leftover pulled pork from a previous BBQ meal is a fantastic shortcut and adds authentic flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Substitute shredded cooked chicken for the pulled pork for a lighter version.
- For a more traditional, gamey flavor, consider using rabbit or squirrel, if available and desired (though less common today).