Brunswick Stew(Makes 75 Quarts)
Brunswick Stew is a hearty, smoky dish packed with tender meats, vegetables, and rich flavors, perfect for large gatherings or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large black pot outside over a fire, combine the hens, beef, bacon, potatoes, onions, butter beans, and tomatoes.
- Add salt, pepper, and sugar to taste, approximately 1 cup salt, 1/4 cup pepper, and 2 cups sugar.
- Cook the mixture until all ingredients are tender and flavors meld, about 4 hours.
- About 20 to 30 minutes before finishing, add the corn to the stew.
- Stir well and continue cooking until the corn is heated through.
- Serve hot, ideal on a cold rainy day with hot rolls or cornbread.
- The stew can be split between families and frozen for later use or made as a church fundraiser.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using leftover cooked meats or poultry if you have them on hand. You can substitute other beans for butter beans, like black beans or pinto beans, based on your preference. If you want a smokier flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or using smoked bacon. Remember to adjust seasonings to taste throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Brunswick stew is best served hot, making it a comforting meal on a cold rainy day. Pair it with warm cornbread or hot rolls for a complete experience. It also goes well with a fresh green salad or coleslaw on the side. For a fun twist, serve with Dilly Bean Roll-Ups for a unique appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunswick Stew(Makes 75 Quarts) contains roughly 8000 calories, with 192g protein, 520g carbohydrates, and 623g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (894% of the Daily Value), protein (385% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (186% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Brunswick stew in advance?
Yes, Brunswick stew can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat when ready to serve.
What type of meat is best for Brunswick stew?
Traditionally, Brunswick stew includes chicken and beef, but you can use any leftover meats you have. For an even richer flavor, try incorporating smoked meats or sausages. Just ensure they are cooked before adding to the stew.
Can I add vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to ensure all ingredients are tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).