Are you ready for a hearty, flavorful stew that'll warm your soul and satisfy your hunger? Then get ready to dive into the delicious world of Brunswick Stew, Smithfield style! This isn't your average stew; it's a rich, slow-cooked masterpiece, brimming with tender chicken, succulent pork, and a medley of garden-fresh vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening, a weekend gathering, or simply a comforting weeknight dinner, this easy recipe will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's get started on this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe generously serves 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup lima beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup butter beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup kernel corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation of our delicious stew.
Building the stew: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the chicken and pork, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
Simmer to perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the chicken and pork are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become!
Adding the beans and corn: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the lima beans, butter beans, and corn. Continue to simmer until the beans are tender and heated through.
Serve and enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This Brunswick Stew is delicious served with crusty bread or cornbread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Brunswick Stew:
- Bone-in chicken and pork: For an even richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs and pork shoulder. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Fresh vegetables: Using fresh vegetables will significantly enhance the taste of your stew.
- Slow cooking magic: A slow cooker is perfect for this recipe! Follow the same instructions, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Brunswick Stew: Replace the chicken and pork with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini.
- Beef Brunswick Stew: Substitute the chicken and pork with beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Spicy Brunswick Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Smithfield-inspired Brunswick Stew is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The hearty flavors and simple cooking process make it a truly delicious dish, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!