Brunswick Stew: A Southern Comfort Classic

Brunswick stew is a Southern dish that features beans, vegetables, and meat in a tomato-based sauce. It is typically made with chicken and pork, but can also include beef, rabbit, squirrel, and other meats. The dish is often enhanced with condiments such as barbecue sauce and ketchup, giving it a sweet and savoury flavour. It is a hearty, comforting meal that is perfect for using up leftover meat and vegetables.

The origins of New Brunswick stew

Brunswick stew is believed to have originated in the Southern United States, with some sources claiming it started in Brunswick, Georgia, and others pointing to Brunswick County in Virginia. It was traditionally made with whatever meats and vegetables were locally available, which could include squirrel, rabbit, or even opossum. These days, it is more common to find pork, chicken, and beef in the stew.

The stew is typically cooked in a large pot over medium to high heat, with onions, garlic, and other vegetables sautéed in butter or oil before the meats and remaining ingredients are added. It is often served with cornbread or biscuits and enjoyed by hunters and Southerners alike.

Some people believe that Brunswick stew was created by a pit master looking to use up leftover meat after a slow day of sales. Others claim it originated from poor southerners who subsisted on whatever they had, including small game meats like squirrel and rabbit.

Whatever its exact origins, Brunswick stew has become a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, offering a hearty and flavourful meal that can be adapted to use whatever ingredients are on hand.

Ingredients and recipe

Brunswick stew is a hearty, comforting Southern dish that features meat, vegetables, and beans in a tomato base. The recipe is versatile and can be adapted based on what's available locally.

The following ingredients are required to make Brunswick stew:

• Butter or olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• Chicken stock or broth
• Barbecue sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Brown sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Cayenne pepper
• Meat (traditionally squirrel, rabbit, or opossum, but now commonly chicken, pork, or beef)
• Corn (fresh or frozen)
• Lima beans or butter beans (fresh or frozen)
• Other vegetables like potatoes, celery, okra, or bell peppers (optional)

• Heat butter or olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat.
• Add onion and cook until soft and translucent.
• Add garlic and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently.
• Add tomatoes, chicken stock, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and any other desired vegetables. Stir well.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
• Add the meat and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes or so.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Serve with cornbread or biscuits, and enjoy!

Brunswick stew is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste. You can use any combination of meats and vegetables that you like, and adjust the seasoning to your preference. It's a great way to use up leftover meat and vegetables, and it freezes well for future meals.

Nutritional information

Brunswick stew is a hearty, flavourful dish that can be made with a variety of meats and vegetables. While the specific nutritional content of the dish will depend on the ingredients used, here is an overview of the nutritional information for Brunswick stew:

Calories and Macronutrients:

A cup of Brunswick stew typically contains between 170 and 350 calories. The macronutrient breakdown can vary, but it is generally a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. For example, a 243-gram serving of Brunswick stew contains approximately 289 calories, with 12 grams of fat, 27 grams of protein, and 18 grams of carbohydrates.

Vitamins and Minerals:

Brunswick stew is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B12, folate, calcium, iron, and potassium. For instance, a serving of Brunswick stew can provide 17.01 mcg of vitamin A, 8.7 mg of vitamin C, and 41.31 mg of calcium.

Fats:

The dish also contains a range of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is important to note that Brunswick stew typically contains saturated fat, with around 3 grams per serving, so consumption should be moderated in alignment with dietary guidelines.

Cholesterol:

Brunswick stew is relatively high in cholesterol, with approximately 90 mg per serving. This is an important consideration for individuals watching their cholesterol intake.

Preparation and Serving:

Brunswick stew can be made in large batches and frozen for later consumption. It is often served with cornbread or saltine crackers and can be customised with additional ingredients like okra, butter beans, or barbecue sauce to enhance its flavour and texture.

Disclaimer:

It is important to note that the nutritional information provided here may not be exact and can vary based on specific ingredients, serving sizes, and preparation methods. The information presented here is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional nutritional advice or medical treatment.

What to serve it with

New Brunswick stew is a hearty dish, so it's often served with light side dishes to balance out the meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

Breads

Cornbread or biscuits are classic accompaniments to Brunswick stew. Cornbread in particular is a traditional Southern side that pairs well with the stew's flavours and can help mop up any leftover sauce.

Salads and vegetables

A crisp salad, coleslaw, or pickles can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. Fried okra, hushpuppies, or sautéed spinach are other vegetable-based sides that can round out the meal.

Meat

Brunswick stew often contains meat, but if you're looking for an additional protein source, barbecued chicken or pork are popular choices.

Other

Some people like to serve Brunswick stew with peanut butter sandwiches or grilled cheese. It can also be served as a side dish rather than a main course, in which case you might want to offer a larger main course option such as barbecued meats.

How to store it

Brunswick stew is a hearty meal that can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It can also be frozen for up to three months.

To store Brunswick stew, first let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the stew to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days.

If you want to freeze Brunswick stew, it's best to use freezer-safe zip-top bags or airtight containers, leaving some space at the top to account for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy your frozen stew, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Some people also like to freeze Brunswick stew in individual portions. To do this, simply add the desired amount to quart-size freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion, and lay them flat in the freezer. Then, you can easily thaw and reheat a single serving when you're ready to enjoy it again!

Frequently asked questions