Georgia Brunswick Stew Recipe

Georgia Brunswick Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish steeped in Southern tradition. This comforting stew combines tender pulled pork, shredded chicken, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich, smoky broth. Perfect for cold evenings or family gatherings, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal that embodies the essence of Southern cooking.

Whether you have leftover meats on hand or you’re looking for a reason to try out that new barbecue sauce, this recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and soul-warming flavor.

What Is Georgia Brunswick Stew?

Georgia Brunswick Stew is a Southern classic made with a combination of pulled pork, shredded chicken, and vegetables like lima beans and corn, all simmered in a tangy, tomato-based broth. Originating from the South, this dish is beloved for its smoky barbecue flavors and rich, thick consistency. It’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is comforting, and it pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crackers for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Uses cooked or leftover meats for quick assembly.
• Rich and Flavorful: Smoky barbecue sauce and spices create a deep, savory taste.
• Hearty and Filling: A one-pot meal that satisfies the whole family.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with vegetables or spices of your choice.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pulled pork (leftover or store-bought)
• 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups frozen corn
• 2 cups frozen lima beans (or butter beans)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Base

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Adding the Liquids

4. Pour in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

3. Adding Meats and Vegetables

6. Add the pulled pork, shredded chicken, frozen corn, lima beans, and smoked paprika.
7. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.

4. Simmer and Season

8. Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld.
9. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the stew with warm cornbread or saltine crackers for a true Southern experience.
• Serve with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick if you love spice.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Let the stew cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace pulled pork and chicken with smoked tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or 1 tsp cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Beans Swap: Substitute lima beans with black beans or kidney beans for a twist.
• Sweeter Flavor: Add 1-2 tbsp brown sugar to enhance the barbecue sweetness.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

What if I don’t have pulled pork?

You can substitute with smoked sausage or even ground beef for a different take on the stew.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Use fresh corn kernels and lima beans, but increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re tender.

Georgia Brunswick Stew is the ultimate comfort food, offering a smoky, savory flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s an easy way to bring a taste of Southern tradition to your table. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience with family and friends!

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