Carolina Brunswick Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish with deep roots in Southern cuisine, particularly in Virginia and North Carolina.

Traditionally made with a mix of meats—often including chicken, pork, or beef—this stew is simmered with fresh vegetables and a rich tomato base, resulting in a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Originating in the 19th century, Brunswick stew has evolved over time, but it remains a beloved comfort food in the South, often served at barbecue joints and community events.

The dish’s versatility allows for variations based on regional preferences or personal tastes, making it an excellent choice for home cooks looking to experiment.

This recipe captures the essence of Carolina Brunswick Stew while allowing for adaptations to suit your palate.

Ingredients

To prepare a delicious Carolina Brunswick Stew, gather the following ingredients:

Meat:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 pound smoked pulled pork (or leftover barbecue pork)
• 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen corn)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 cup chopped green beans (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning and Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

How to Make Carolina Brunswick Stew

Prepare the Meat:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper. Sear the beef in the pot for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the pulled pork, chicken thighs, corn, diced tomatoes, potatoes, and green beans. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Add Broth and Seasonings:

Pour in the chicken broth, and add Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and additional salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined.

Simmer the Stew:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the meats to become tender. If using chicken thighs, they can be shredded easily at this point.

Shred the Chicken:

After the stew has simmered, remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Shred the meat with two forks, discarding the skin and bones, if any. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.

Adjust Consistency and Flavor:

If the stew is too thick, you can add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne for heat.

Serve:

Ladle the Carolina Brunswick Stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. This stew pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.

Chef’s Note

Carolina Brunswick Stew is incredibly versatile, allowing for variations based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the meats or vegetables; for instance, some people prefer to use rabbit or even wild game in their stew. You can also incorporate other vegetables like okra or squash, depending on the season.

For a deeper flavor, consider smoking your meats before adding them to the stew. This will impart a wonderful smokiness that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Additionally, this stew can be made ahead of time, as the flavors will intensify after sitting. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Carolina Brunswick Stew is a nutritious option, rich in protein from the meats and fiber from the vegetables. It offers a balanced meal that can help satisfy hunger and provide essential nutrients.

However, be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using pre-packaged broth or sauces; choosing low-sodium options can help manage this.

Conclusion

Carolina Brunswick Stew is a quintessential Southern dish that brings together a medley of flavors and ingredients, reflecting the region’s culinary history. This comforting stew is not only satisfying but also a great way to use up leftover meats and seasonal vegetables.

Whether you’re enjoying it at a family gathering or warming up on a cold day, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table.

Embrace the flavors of the South with this hearty dish and share it with friends and family for a truly memorable meal. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of Carolina Brunswick Stew!

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