Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

Delve into the culinary heritage of Virginia with a dish that not only reflects the state’s rich history but also serves as a symbol of affordable and hearty family meals—Virginia Brunswick Stew. This beloved recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort and offers a delicious journey through the flavors of Virginia. Join us as we explore the steps to create a wholesome pot of Brunswick Stew that will undoubtedly become a staple on your family’s dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 pound pork shoulder, diced
• 1 cup ham, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup lima beans, frozen or fresh
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• 1 cup okra, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup potatoes, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the chicken thighs, pork shoulder, and ham over medium-high heat until they develop a golden crust. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and aromatic.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned meats to the pot. Add lima beans, corn, okra, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and green beans.
4. Pour in Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, ensuring it covers the ingredients. Add the bay leaf.
5. Season and Simmer: Stir in barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the stew to a simmer.
6. Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours or until the meats are tender and flavors meld.
7. Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce to suit your preference.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Virginia Brunswick Stew into bowls and serve piping hot. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Virginia Brunswick Stew is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, affordability, and the rich tapestry of Virginia’s culinary tradition. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday afternoon, during a family reunion, or as a comforting dinner option, this stew brings together a medley of flavors that warm both the heart and the soul. So, savor the tender meats, relish the blend of vegetables, and let each spoonful transport you to the cozy kitchens of Virginia. Embrace the nourishing tradition of Virginia Brunswick Stew—a wholesome and affordable dish that embodies the spirit of family and the enduring flavors of the Old Dominion.