Smoked Brunswick Stew on the BBQ – Southern Comfort in a Pot

A debate over the origin of Brunswick Stew is still ongoing between the city of Brunswick, Georgia, and Brunswick County, Virginia.
But when the smoky aroma of barbecue meets the rustic tradition of a well-rooted Southern recipe, something magical happens.
That’s exactly the case with BBQ Brunswick Stew — an iconic dish from the American South that blends the heat of open flames with traditional ingredients to create a truly unmatched symphony of flavors.

A Story of Tradition

Brunswick Stew has its roots in the American South, where it’s been cooked for generations in homesteads and at community gatherings.
This hearty stew, which has evolved over time, has become a symbol of Southern hospitality and a deep love for comforting, home-style dishes.

Ingredients with Character

The secret of a great Brunswick Stew lies in the combination of ingredients, each bringing its own personality to the pot.
Traditionally made with smoked meats like pork or chicken, the stew is enriched with vegetables such as tomatoes, beans, corn, and onions.
This colorful variety creates a deep, complex blend of flavors in every bite.

The Magic of BBQ

What truly sets BBQ Brunswick Stew apart is the addition of smoke.
Smoked meat adds a signature depth of flavor, while the broth absorbs the aromas of the grill, resulting in a perfect fusion between rustic Southern tradition and the primal fire of barbecue.

🕒 Prep and Cooking Time

• Prep: 30 minutes
• Cook: 120 minutes
• Total: ~150 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

• 3 sliced carrots
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1 sliced onion
• 1 handful of green beans
• 4–5 potatoes
• Leftover beef brisket
• Leftover pulled pork
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 can of peeled tomatoes
• 500 ml tomato sauce
• 500 ml chicken broth
• 1 can of corn
• salt, pepper, hot sauce
• 1 cup of barbecue sauce

🔥 Instructions

1. Smoke the chicken drumsticks for 1 hour at 110°C (230°F).
2. Sweat the onion and garlic in olive oil.
3. Add broth, carrots, green beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and potatoes. Cook for 1 hour over low heat.
4. Add the meats, corn, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Simmer for another 1 to 2 hours as preferred.

Food and Drink Pairings

This rich stew pairs well with a Rhône Valley red, an American Zinfandel, or a lightly smoked amber ale.

Serving

Serve hot in thick bowls, topped with a spoonful of sour cream or fresh parsley. Accompany with cornbread or corn cakes.

Dietary Variations

• Meat-free: use smoked tofu and red beans instead of meat leftovers.
• Gluten-free: use homemade BBQ sauce.
• Low-carb: replace potatoes with cauliflower.

Nutrition Facts

Health Insights: Cancer + Diabetes