Grits: A Staple In Brunswick Stew?

Brunswick stew is a Southern dish with a rich history and a variety of recipes. While the exact origin of the stew is disputed, it is believed to have originated from the Native Americans in the Southeast, who made it with ingredients like squirrels, groundhogs, hominy, and vegetables like corn and squash. The dish then evolved as it was adopted by European settlers, and today, it is commonly associated with the states of Virginia and Georgia, each of which has its own unique take on the dish.

What meat is in Brunswick stew?

Brunswick stew is a tomato-based stew that typically includes various types of beans, corn, okra, and other vegetables, as well as one or more types of meat.

The stew's origin is disputed, with both Brunswick County, Virginia, and the city of Brunswick, Georgia, claiming to have invented it. However, it is believed to have originated with the Southeastern Native Americans, who used ingredients like squirrels, groundhogs, and deer.

Over time, the types of meat used in Brunswick stew have evolved. Here are the common types of meat used in this delicious dish:

Chicken

Chicken is now the most common meat used in Brunswick stew. It adds a lean and tender protein option to the hearty dish. Whether grilled, smoked, or roasted, chicken pairs well with the other ingredients and absorbs the flavours of the barbecue sauce and spices.

Rabbit

Rabbit meat is more commonly used in Virginia Brunswick stew. It is a lean, gamey meat that adds a unique flavour to the dish. Rabbit meat is typically cooked until tender and contributes to the stew's hearty and comforting nature.

Pork

Pork, particularly pulled pork, is a popular choice for Brunswick stew, especially in Georgia. It adds a juicy and savoury element to the dish. The smoked or roasted pork blends beautifully with the other ingredients, creating a rich and indulgent stew.

Beef

Beef, specifically brisket, is another type of meat used in Brunswick stew. It adds a hearty and robust flavour to the dish. Whether smoked or cooked, beef provides a tender and juicy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Squirrel, Opossum, and Other Small Game

Traditionally, Brunswick stew was made with small game meats such as squirrel, opossum, and rabbit. These meats were readily available to Native Americans and early settlers in the region. While less common today, some people still use these meats to add a unique, gamey flavour to the stew.

It's important to note that recipes for Brunswick stew vary, and some people may use different combinations of meats or even add other types of meat, such as ground beef or lamb. The beauty of this stew is its versatility, allowing cooks to use whatever meat is available or suits their taste preferences.

What vegetables are in Brunswick stew?

Brunswick stew is a tomato-based stew that typically includes a variety of vegetables. While recipes vary, the stew commonly features vegetables such as:

• Corn
• Lima beans (including baby lima beans and butter beans)
• Okra
• Potatoes
• Diced tomatoes

Some recipes may also include other vegetables, such as onions, garlic, and squash. The choice of vegetables often depends on regional variations and personal preference. For example, the addition of potatoes can make the stew thicker.

These vegetables are combined with meat, beans, and a savoury barbecue broth to create a hearty and flavourful dish.

What is the history of Brunswick stew?

The history of Brunswick stew is a contentious topic, with both Brunswick County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia, claiming to have invented the dish. The debate has sparked what is known as the "stew wars", with each state presenting evidence to support their claim.

The Virginia Claim

Virginia's claim to the invention of Brunswick stew can be traced back to an African American hunting-camp cook named Jimmy Matthews, who, in 1828, is said to have concocted a squirrel stew for his enslaver, Creed Haskins. This story is supported by a 1988 Virginia General Assembly proclamation, which honoured Brunswick County as the official birthplace of the stew. Additionally, there are written accounts from Virginia prior to the Civil War that mention a dish called Brunswick stew, such as an 1849 article in the Alexandria Gazette.

The Georgia Claim

Brunswick, Georgia, also lays claim to the invention of Brunswick stew, citing a 25-gallon iron pot outside the coastal town that bears a plaque declaring it to be the vessel in which the first Brunswick stew was cooked in 1898. However, this claim has been disputed, as there are no written records of the dish being cooked in colonial Georgia. Georgia's version of the stew typically uses a mixture of pork and beef with hotter spices and often accompanies barbecue.

The Native American Influence

While the "stew wars" rage on between Virginia and Georgia, it is important to recognise the influence of Native American culinary traditions on the development of Brunswick stew. In pre-colonial times, Native Americans in the Southeast created stews using ingredients like squirrels, groundhogs, hominy, deer, bear, corn, and squash. These culinary traditions were shared with European settlers, influencing the creation of classic American dishes like cornbread, corn fritters, grits, and baked beans.

What is the best way to cook Brunswick stew?

Brunswick stew is a tomato-based stew that is packed with flavour and is incredibly easy to make. The dish is thought to have originated in the southeastern United States, with both Brunswick County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia, claiming to have invented it.

Ingredients

Recipes for Brunswick stew vary, but the dish usually contains various types of meat, lima beans (butter beans), corn, okra, and other vegetables. Originally, it was made with small game meats such as squirrel, rabbit, or opossum, but today, chicken is the most common meat used. Other meats include pulled pork and beef.

For the vegetables, onion, garlic, and canned tomatoes are common additions, along with frozen corn, lima beans, and okra. Potatoes, celery, and baby lima beans are also sometimes added.

Seasoning

Brunswick stew is typically seasoned with barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Method

• Heat some butter or oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
• Add chopped onion and sauté until it starts to brown.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Add the remaining ingredients: tomatoes, chicken stock, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, brown sugar, pepper, cayenne, and the meats.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes.
• For an even easier recipe, you can use a crock pot or slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients, mix well, cover, and cook on low for 5 hours or high for 3 hours.

Serving

Brunswick stew is a hearty and flavourful dish that can be enjoyed on its own. However, it is often served with cornbread, biscuits, or coleslaw for a filling and warming meal.

Storage

Brunswick stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 2-3 months.

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, if you're looking for some side dishes to accompany it, here are some options that will complement the rich and smoky flavours of the stew:

• Cornbread: This is a must-have side dish for Brunswick stew. It pairs perfectly with the stew and is great for soaking up all the delicious sauce. You can keep it simple or add some jalapeños, cheddar cheese, or bacon bits for an extra kick.
• Garlic Bread: This is a great option for garlic lovers. Brush some butter or oil on your garlic bread and pop it in the oven for a warm and garlicky side dish.
• Green Beans Almondine: This classic side dish is simple to make and transports you to the French countryside. The crispy and tender beans tossed in a buttery almond-flavoured sauce pair beautifully with the heartiness of the stew.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn is a must-have side for any summer barbecue or potluck. It pairs well with the Brunswick stew and adds a nice charred flavour.
• Jasmine Rice: This versatile side dish can be cooked in various ways and reheats well. It adds a touch of elegance to your meal and pairs perfectly with the earthy flavours of the stew.
• Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is a perfect pairing for Brunswick stew. It can be made in different styles, so it's sure to please everyone's palate.
• Mashed Potatoes: This classic side dish is a quick and easy option that goes well with other hearty winter dishes. Use Russet potatoes for the best mashing results and don't forget to add some shredded cheese, green onions, or bacon bits for extra flavour.
• Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy, and creamy coleslaw is an excellent contrast to the hearty stew. It can be made in various ways and pairs well with all types of meats, making it perfect for barbecues and potlucks.
• Saffron Blended Coconut Rice: Coconut rice is a staple in many cuisines and its simplicity makes it a great pairing for Brunswick stew. The addition of saffron gives it a touch of exotic flavour and colour.
• Roasted Aubergine with Garlic and Herbs: Aubergine is a versatile side dish that takes on the flavours of garlic and herbs beautifully. It's a mild-flavoured side dish that won't overpower the tangy and creamy flavours of the stew.
• Spicy Fried Polenta: Leftover polenta can be cut into attractive shapes and pan-fried in chili oil for a crispy and soft side dish. It adds a little kick to your meal and can also be cut into thin slices and added to the stew as a seasoning.
• Garlic Butter Baguette Sandwich: Bread is a traditional pairing with stews and soups. Smear some garlic butter on a baguette, and you've got a juicy and starchy side dish that's perfect for scooping up the broth.
• Grilled Veggie Platter with Balsamic Dressing: Grilled vegetables are a simple and juicy side dish. Add a touch of balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the flavours. The crunch of the veggies pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the stew.
• Cheddar Bay Biscuits: These biscuits are a famous pairing with Brunswick stew. The cheesy goodness complements the stew without overpowering it, and they can be prepared in less than thirty minutes.
• Bacon-Wrapped Hotdogs: These grilled treats are a perfect blend of savory and smoky, just like the stew. Slice them up and toss them into the stew for a wholesome eating experience.

These side dishes will enhance the flavours of your Brunswick stew and offer a variety of textures and tastes to your meal.

Frequently asked questions