Peggy'S Brunswick Stew
A hearty Southern stew combining tender chicken, beef, lima beans, potatoes, and peppers, rich in flavor and perfect for family gatherings or comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 10 to 12 lb. chicken fryers or breasts ⓘ
- 6 to 8 lb. beef, meat precooked, boned and skinned ⓘ
- 4 to 5 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 5 lb. dried lima beans, soaked overnight ⓘ
- 15 lb. potatoes ⓘ
- 3 to 4 lb. onions
- approximately 2 gallons tomatoes ⓘ
- approximately 3 quarts corn ⓘ
- 3 to 4 pods red pepper ⓘ
- 5 bell peppers ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups sugar ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 2 to 3 sticks margarine ⓘ
Instructions
- Fill a large pot 3/4 full with water and bring to a boil.
- Add soaked lima beans and the water they were soaked in to the boiling water.
- Add precooked or preheated beef and chicken to the pot.
- Cook until beans and meats are tender, then add potatoes.
- Add all peppers and onions, blended, to the pot.
- Continue cooking until potatoes are done.
- Add tomatoes to the stew.
- Finally, add corn and meat and cook until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of water for boiling the beans. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Adding a dash of smoked paprika can enhance the stew's depth. Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for even cooking. If you're short on time, canned beans can be used but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peggy's Brunswick Stew hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a simple garden salad or some roasted vegetables. It's perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting meal on chilly nights.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Brunswick Stew contains roughly 1112 calories, with 51g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (179% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (161% of the Daily Value), and protein (102% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1187mg per serving (52% 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 use different beans in this Brunswick stew?
Yes, you can substitute dried lima beans with other beans like navy beans or black-eyed peas. Keep in mind that different beans may require varying cooking times. Always soak them overnight for optimal texture and flavor. Adjust the seasonings to match the chosen beans for the best results.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add heat to your Brunswick stew, increase the number of red pepper pods or add diced jalapeños. You can also incorporate hot sauce or red pepper flakes while cooking. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preference, ensuring the spice complements the other flavors without overpowering them.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this stew in a slow cooker, simply layer the soaked beans, meats, vegetables, and tomatoes in the pot. Add enough water or broth to cover the ingredients. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until everything is tender and flavors meld beautifully. Adjust seasoning before serving.
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).