By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on July 24, 2023 | Last Updated on March 23, 2024
Smithfield Brunswick stew is a beloved Southern classic known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This stew originated in the town of Brunswick, Virginia, and has become a staple in Southern cuisine.
Combining flavorful ingredients, this stew is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or a cozy dinner, Smithfield Brunswick stew is sure to warm your soul and leave you craving for more.
In this article, you will learn about the ingredients and directions for making Smithfield Brunswick stew. You will also find out about the tools you need to make this delicious dish.
What Is Smithfield Brunswick Stew?
Smithfield Brunswick stew is a hearty Southern dish that combines pork, chicken, lima beans, potatoes, corn, and tomatoes into a savory stew. The ingredients are simmered in Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and salt to create the ideal balance of flavors. This comforting dish is full of flavor and sure to please all taste buds.
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Where Did I First Try Smithfield Brunswick Stew?
My first encounter with Smithfield Brunswick stew was when I bought it from Walmart. I had been browsing the aisles of the store for something to have for dinner that night when I came across this can of Smithfield Brunswick stew. After reading through the ingredients on the back, I was intrigued by its unique combination of vegetables and meats.
I decided to give it a try and am so glad that I did! The flavors blended together perfectly, creating a hearty and comforting dish that is sure to please all tastes. The pork barbecue was especially delicious; it added just the right amount of smokiness to the stew without being too overpowering.
I also found that adding some diced potatoes to the stew made it even more filling and enjoyable. The lima beans added a nice texture, while the corn brought some sweetness to the dish. All of these flavors blended together with the Worcestershire sauce and pepper made for a truly unique and delicious meal.
Since that first experience, I have tried the recipe at home many times and have become quite the aficionado of Smithfield Brunswick stew. I now make it as part of a large supper or just to enjoy for lunch with some crusty bread.
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Ingredients
- Chicken: The star of the show, the whole chicken, provides the foundation for the stew’s flavor. The tender meat, when cooked to perfection, effortlessly falls off the bone, infusing the broth with its savory essence.
- Pork Barbecue: Adding an extra layer of smokiness and depth, the fully-cooked pork barbecue imparts a rich and distinct flavor to the stew. Its tender and juicy texture complements the chicken beautifully.
- Baby Lima Beans: These small, tender beans are a classic addition to Smithfield Brunswick stew, offering a creamy and slightly nutty taste that balances the dish.
- Corn: Sweet corn kernels bring a burst of brightness to the stew, adding both color and sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A touch of Worcestershire sauce elevates the taste by contributing tanginess and umami notes.
- Black Pepper and Salt: These common spices provide the necessary seasoning to enhance the taste of all the ingredients.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes offer a comforting and hearty texture to the stew, making it even more satisfying.
- Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste: The combination of tomato sauce and tomato paste provides the stew’s signature tomato base, lending acidity, and a rich, velvety consistency.
- Butter: A small amount of butter enriches the stew, adding a smooth and luscious touch.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar balances the stew’s flavors, adding a mild tangy note.
- Texas Pete Hot Sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, Texas Pete Hot Sauce brings a delightful kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Ketchup: The subtle sweetness of ketchup harmonizes the ingredients, giving the stew a well-rounded taste.
- Brown Sugar: A hint of brown sugar balances the acidity and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the overall flavor profile.
Cooking Directions
Step 1
In a large pot, heat the butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted, add in the chicken and pork barbecue. Cook for 10 minutes until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
Step 2
Add the lima beans, corn, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3
Add the potatoes, tomato sauce and paste, apple cider vinegar, Texas Pete hot sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar to the pot. Bring the stew to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 more minutes or until thickened.
Serve warm with fresh bread or rolls.
Cooking Tips
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken instead of cooking a whole chicken from scratch.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of Texas Pete Hot Sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- For a thicker stew, you can add more tomato paste or reduce the amount of liquid used in the recipe.
- This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, so feel free to make it in advance and reheat it when needed.
What Ingredients Can I Replace or Substitute While Making It?
- If you prefer a meatless version, you can omit the chicken and pork barbecue altogether and use plant-based alternatives like tofu, tempeh, or meatless crumbles for added texture and protein.
- Feel free to add or substitute different vegetables such as okra, peas, or carrots to customize the stew to your liking.
- If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the Texas Pete Hot Sauce and adjust the black pepper to your taste.
- If you prefer a lighter stew, you can use vegetable broth instead of tomato-based broth.
Smithfield Brunswick Stew Recipe
Equipment
- Fryer
- pot
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt fundamental seasoning that helps balance the flavors and enhances the taste of the other ingredients.
- 1/2 lb. Baby Lima Beans small and tender legumes that provide a creamy texture and a nutty flavor.
- 1/2 whole Chicken tender and juicy poultry that adds a savory and meaty element to the dish.
- 1/2 lb. Corn sweet and crisp kernels that add a pop of freshness and a hint of natural sweetness.
- 1/2 can Tomato Sauce – 4 oz. – a smooth and tangy tomato base that forms the foundation of the flavorful sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper pungent and aromatic spice that adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 can Tomato Paste – 2 oz. – a concentrated tomato product that adds depth richness, and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
- 1/4 stick Butter a luscious and creamy ingredient that imparts richness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/8 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar a tangy and slightly fruity addition that balances the flavors and adds a subtle acidity.
- 1/2 lb. Pork Barbecue fully cooked succulent and flavorful pulled pork that brings a smoky and tangy taste to the recipe.
- 1/8 tablespoons Ketchup sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce that adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the recipe.
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar rich and molasses-like sweetener that enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 medium Potatoes diced starchy and hearty tubers that contribute a comforting and filling element to the dish.
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce a savory and tangy sauce that adds depth umami, and a slightly tangy note.
- 1/8 tablespoons Texas Pete Hot Sauce spicy and zesty condiment that brings a fiery kick to the dish.
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted, add in the chicken and pork barbecue. Cook for 10 minutes until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
- Add the lima beans, corn, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the potatoes, tomato sauce and paste, apple cider vinegar, Texas Pete hot sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar to the pot. Bring the stew to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30 more minutes or until thickened. Serve warm with fresh bread or rolls.
Notes
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken instead of cooking a whole chicken from scratch.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of Texas Pete Hot Sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- For a thicker stew, you can add more tomato paste or reduce the amount of liquid used in the recipe.
- This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, so feel free to make it in advance and reheat it when needed.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 cup (250g),
- Calories: 251,
- Fat: 10.4g,
- Saturated Fat: 4.0g,
- Cholesterol: 58mg,
- Sodium: 598mg,
- Carbohydrates: 18.2g,
- Fiber: 2.8g,
- Sugar 9.5g
- Protein 16.7g
How to Store Leftover Smithfield Brunswick Stew?
If you have any leftovers, store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to three to four days. Alternatively, you can freeze the stew in individual portions for future enjoyment. To reheat, simply thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a pot on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature.
FAQs
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely enjoy Smithfield Brunswick stew as long as the chicken and pork are fully cooked and the ingredients are handled and stored properly. However, if you have specific dietary concerns or medical conditions, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, Smithfield Brunswick stew is naturally gluten-free. If you want to make sure that no gluten-containing ingredients are added, double-check the labels of any store-bought ingredients such as tomato sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily transform this stovetop recipe into a slow cooker meal. Just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the stew is thickened and bubbly. If desired, you can also add additional liquid as needed to adjust the thickness of the stew.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey to discover the delightful world of Smithfield Brunswick stew. With its flavorful blend of tender chicken, smoky pork barbecue, creamy lima beans, and sweet corn, this hearty Southern classic is sure to impress your taste buds and warm your heart.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply craving comfort food, this stew is a perfect choice. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and savor the rich flavors of Smithfield Brunswick stew as you create cherished memories with your loved ones and share the recipe with them.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
