Simmering Brunswick Stew: To Boil Or Not?

Brunswick stew is a classic Southern dish that is a perfect side for a barbecue. It is a thick stew with a tomato base, made with barbecue sauce, a mixture of leftover meats like pork, chicken, and beef, and vegetables like corn and lima beans. The origins of the dish are shrouded in mystery, with Brunswick, Georgia, and Brunswick County, Virginia, both claiming to be the birthplace of the dish.

The key to making Brunswick stew is to bring the ingredients to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the flavours to meld together. This creates a rich, smoky stew that is perfect for a cold day or when you're craving a taste of the South.

What to cook Brunswick stew in

Brunswick stew is a classic Southern dish that is typically cooked in a Dutch oven or heavy stock pot. However, it can also be cooked in a basic pot on the stove, a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot.

A Dutch oven is a great option for preparing Brunswick stew as it is a simple yet versatile piece of kitchen equipment that can handle a variety of tasks. It is made of heavy-gauge metal and has a tight-fitting lid, which helps to trap heat and moisture, making it ideal for slow-cooking and braising.

If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot. This type of pot is designed for cooking large quantities of liquid and will typically have a capacity of several quarts or litres. It is important to choose a pot with a heavy bottom as this will help distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots that could burn your stew.

For a more modern approach, an Instant Pot or slow cooker can also be used to cook Brunswick stew. These appliances are convenient as they allow you to set the cooking time and temperature, and then leave the stew to cook without needing to stir or monitor it constantly.

Finally, if you don't have access to any of the above options, a basic pot on the stove will also work. Just be sure to choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and has a heavy bottom to distribute heat evenly.

How to store Brunswick stew

Brunswick stew is a hearty dish, and you might have leftovers. Here is how to store it:

Refrigerating Brunswick Stew

Allow your leftover Brunswick stew to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Freezing Brunswick Stew

Yes, you can freeze Brunswick stew for up to three months. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container to account for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Do not heat in the plastic bag.

What to serve with Brunswick stew

Brunswick stew is a hearty and flavourful dish that can be served as a meal on its own. However, it is often accompanied by side dishes that complement its rich and unique taste. Here are some of the best options:

• Cornbread is a must-have side dish when serving Brunswick stew. It pairs well with the stew and is perfect for soaking up all of the delicious sauce. There are countless cornbread recipes to choose from, so you'll never get tired of this classic side.
• Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with Brunswick stew. Russet potatoes are a good choice as they have a high starch content, making the potatoes nice and creamy. You can also add some shredded cheese, green onions, or bacon bits for extra flavour.
• Macaroni and cheese is always a hit and pairs beautifully with the hearty flavours of the stew. You can make it in various styles, such as with elbow noodles or lobster chunks, to suit your preference.
• Grilled buttery corn on the cob is a staple at get-togethers and parties, and it goes perfectly with Brunswick stew. The sweet taste of grilled corn complements the stew's earthy flavours.
• Green beans almondine is a classic side dish that will transport you to the French countryside. The beans are cooked until crispy and tender, then tossed in a buttery and almond-flavoured sauce.
• Cheddar Bay Biscuits have earned a celebrity status, and they go perfectly with Brunswick stew. The cheesy goodness of these biscuits acts as a neutral piece of bread to accompany the stew.
• Cucumber kimchi pickles will add a burst of flavour to your meal. Fermented cucumber kimchi has a lot of textures and flavours, and a small amount is enough to balance the flavours of the stew.
• Saffron-blended coconut rice is a staple in many Asian cuisines and pairs excellently with Brunswick stew. The fresh, tropical coconut flavours from the rice complement the meat and veggie stew perfectly.
• A garlic butter baguette sandwich is a great way to get your garlic fix, and it melts in your mouth when paired with Brunswick stew. Use the sandwich to scoop up the broth for a juicier bite.
• Salads, such as a grilled veggie platter with balsamic dressing, are a simple yet juicy and mildly flavoured side that goes well with the creamy stew.

What to add to Brunswick stew

Brunswick stew is a classic Southern dish that combines a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. While the specific ingredients and cooking methods may vary, here are some essential components to consider when making your own Brunswick stew:

Meats

Traditionally, Brunswick stew was made with small game animals such as squirrel, rabbit, or possum. Today, it is more common to use a combination of pulled or shredded pork, chicken, and/or beef. Some recipes also include smoked meats like brisket or chicken thighs for added flavour. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover pulled pork from your barbecue.

Vegetables

The most common vegetables found in Brunswick stew are lima beans (also known as butter beans), corn, potatoes, and onions. Other options include celery, baby lima beans, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes. You can also add okra, carrots, or peas for extra flavour and texture.

Seasonings and Broth

To create a savoury and slightly spicy broth, you'll need chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Other ingredients like garlic, brown sugar, hot sauce, and pepper can be added to taste. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper!

Cooking Tips

Start by sautéing your aromatics (onion, garlic, and celery) in butter or oil until soft. Then, add your meats, vegetables, and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the stew has thickened. For extra convenience, you can use a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Serving Suggestions

Brunswick stew is often served as a side dish alongside barbecued meats like chicken or pork. It goes well with cornbread, biscuits, coleslaw, or fried okra. For a heartier meal, serve it with crusty bread or in a bread bowl.

How to make Brunswick stew

Brunswick stew is a classic Southern dish that combines a variety of vegetables, beans, and meat in a tomato base. It is a versatile dish that can be made with different types of meat and vegetables, and its origins are debated between Brunswick, Georgia, and Brunswick County, Virginia. Here is a guide on how to make this delicious and hearty stew.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make Brunswick stew:

• Butter or oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Chicken broth or stock
• Barbecue sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Brown sugar (optional)
• Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
• Smoked or cooked meat (pulled pork, chicken, brisket, or a combination)
• Corn (frozen or canned)
• Lima beans or butter beans (frozen or canned)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Other vegetables of your choice (potatoes, celery, okra, etc.)

Instructions:

• Start by heating butter or oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent.
• If using tomato paste, stir it with a small amount of chicken broth before adding it to the pot.
• Add the remaining chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, lima beans, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar (if using), and seasonings to the pot.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
• Add your choice of cooked or smoked meat to the pot and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Serve the Brunswick stew with cornbread, biscuits, coleslaw, or other sides of your choice.

Tips and Variations:

• You can use a variety of meats, including pulled pork, chicken, brisket, or a combination. Leftover meat or rotisserie chicken can also be used.
• For a smokier flavor, add liquid smoke or use smoked meats.
• If using prepared pulled pork with barbecue sauce, reduce the amount of barbecue sauce in the recipe.
• You can add other vegetables like potatoes, celery, okra, or carrots to customize the stew to your taste.
• For a thinner stew, add more chicken broth or water. For a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered until it reduces to your desired consistency.
• Brunswick stew can be made in a Dutch oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, depending on your preference.
• The stew can be frozen in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently asked questions