We can never get enough of this hearty dish, esp when it got cold outside!

Southern Brunswick Stew is a hearty and comforting dish with deep roots in Southern cuisine, historically hailing from Virginia and Georgia. Originally, this stew was made with whatever game or poultry hunters could catch, making it a versatile and resourceful way to feed a crowd. Today, it combines pork, chicken, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered to perfection. Its rich and smoky flavor offers a taste of tradition that's perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings.

Brunswick Stew pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like cornbread, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. To round out the meal, consider serving it with some buttered biscuits or cheese grits. Don't forget a glass of sweet tea or a crisp beer to complement the stew's savory notes.

Servings: 8

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 lb pork shoulder, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
2 cups lima beans
2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add the chicken thighs and pork shoulder chunks, searing them on all sides until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

4. Return the browned meat to the pot, then stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.

5. Add the corn, lima beans, and diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.

6. Stir in the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

For a different take, you can substitute the pork with beef chuck or even lamb. Vegetarians can omit the meat entirely and add more beans or use a meat substitute like Jackfruit for a similar texture. Play around with the vegetables; okra or bell peppers can make great additions. Also, if you like a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the stew an extra kick.