Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew Recipe

A Taste of Tradition: Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

Brunswick stew, a hearty and flavorful concoction, holds a special place in Southern culinary history. While its exact origins remain shrouded in debate, one thing is certain: it’s a dish deeply rooted in tradition and shared meals. The Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew recipe, passed down through generations, embodies this legacy, capturing the essence of Southern comfort food.

This stew, often simmered over an open fire, features a medley of ingredients, each contributing to its rich complexity. From tender chicken and savory vegetables to smoky bacon and tangy tomatoes, every element plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors that warms the soul.

Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a centerpiece for a family gathering, Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of history, a celebration of Southern hospitality, and a reminder of the enduring power of shared traditions.

Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew Recipe Card

This classic Southern stew is a staple of the Old Hickory House, a beloved institution in the heart of the South.

Recipe Details

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Key Ingredients

• 1 kg beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2.5 cm cubes (1 lb)
• 250 g smoked sausage, sliced (8 oz)
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 250 g diced tomatoes (8 oz)
• 250 ml beef broth (8 fl oz)
• 60 g all-purpose flour (2 tbsp)
• 30 g brown sugar (2 tbsp)
• 10 g ground cumin (1 tsp)
• 10 g smoked paprika (1 tsp)

Temperature Guide

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and cook at 160°C (325°F) for the last 30 minutes.

Ingredients for Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

To make an authentic Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew, it’s essential to have the right combination of ingredients. This hearty stew typically includes a mix of meats, vegetables, and spices. The key to its rich flavor lies in the balance of these components.

The base of the stew consists of meats and vegetables, which are then seasoned with a blend of spices. For the meats, a combination of pork, beef, and chicken is traditional. The vegetables add natural sweetness and texture, while the spices provide depth and warmth.

Required Ingredients:

• 500 g / 1.1 lb pork shoulder, diced
• 250 g / 0.55 lb beef brisket, diced
• 250 g / 0.55 lb chicken thighs, diced
• 2 medium onions, chopped (250 g / 1 cup)
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (400 g / 2 cups)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced (200 g / 1 cup)
• 1 large can of crushed tomatoes (800 g / 28 oz)
• 2 tbsp (30 g / 1 oz) smoked paprika
• 1 tsp (5 g / 0.2 oz) ground cumin
• 1 tsp (5 g / 0.2 oz) salt
• 0.5 tsp (2 g / 0.1 oz) black pepper

Optional Ingredients:

• 1-2 diced jalapeños for extra heat
• 1/4 cup (60 g / 2 oz) of barbecue sauce for added richness

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

This recipe guides you through creating a delicious Brunswick stew inspired by the Old Hickory House tradition. Follow these detailed steps for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

1. Brown the Meat: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) of cubed beef chuck over medium-high heat.
   Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1 large chopped onion, 2 chopped bell peppers, and 3 minced cloves of garlic to the pot.
   Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of dry white wine into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
   Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.
4. Add the Liquid and Seasonings: Stir in 2 (795 ml) cans of diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 (473 ml) can of chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) of water, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
5. Simmer the Stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
6. Add the Corn and Lima Beans: After 2 hours, stir in 1 (425 g) can of whole kernel corn (drained) and 1 (425 g) can of lima beans (drained).
   Continue to simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the stew and adjust seasonings as needed.
   Add more salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, or any other spices to your liking.
8. Serve Hot: Ladle the Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew into bowls and serve hot.
   Enjoy with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

Mastering the art of Brunswick stew requires attention to detail and a few expert tricks up your sleeve. Follow these pro tips to elevate the flavor, texture, and overall quality of your stew.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

• Use high-quality meat: Opt for slow-cooked, tender beef brisket or short ribs for rich, unctuous flavor.
• Don’t skimp on spices: Include a blend of classic Southern spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to give your stew depth and warmth.
• Acidity balance: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar will help balance the richness of the stew.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overcooking: Brunswick stew should be tender but still retain some texture. Avoid overcooking, which can lead to mushy, unappetizing results.
• Insufficient browning: Take the time to properly brown the meat and vegetables to develop a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth to the stew.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

1. Add a roux: A mixture of flour and fat will help thicken the stew and create a velvety texture.
2. Use the right potatoes: Choose high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho to maintain their shape and add a satisfying bite to the stew.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

To make the Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew recipe more adaptable, consider the following substitutions and alternatives:

• Replace 240 g / 1 cup of pork shoulder with 240 g / 1 cup of beef brisket for a richer flavor, or use 120 g / 0.5 cup of smoked turkey for a leaner option.
• Substitute 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or 1 teaspoon of fish sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
• Use 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika instead of 1 teaspoon of regular paprika to add a smoky depth to the stew.
• For a spicy kick, add 1-2 diced jalapeños or 0.5-1 teaspoon of hot sauce to the stew.

When making substitutions, keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary. Adjust the amount of seasoning and spices accordingly to achieve the desired taste. Cook the stew at 180°C / 350°F for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.

Variations on the Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew Recipe

The beauty of Brunswick stew lies in its adaptability. This classic recipe is a wonderful base for exploring different flavor profiles and textures. Here are a few variations to inspire your culinary creativity:

1. Spicy Kick

   Add a fiery twist by incorporating 1-2 diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the tomatoes. For extra heat, simmer a few chopped serrano peppers with the stew for the last 30 minutes.

2. Smoky Depth

   Enhance the smoky flavor by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. You can also add a tablespoon of liquid smoke towards the end of cooking. For an even deeper smokiness, try cooking the stew over a charcoal grill.

3. Hearty Harvest

   Embrace seasonal ingredients by adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes alongside the corn. This variation adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant orange hue to the stew. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes to allow the squash or potatoes to soften.

4. Creamy Dream

   For a richer, creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This variation adds a touch of decadence to the classic stew.

Storing and Reheating Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

For optimal flavor and food safety, follow these guidelines for storing and reheating your Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew.

Short-Term Storage

Store the stew in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below for up to 3 days. Transfer the stew to a shallow, airtight container to prevent bacterial growth.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the stew in an airtight container or freezer bag at -18°C (0°F) or below for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider dividing the stew into smaller portions to make reheating easier.

Reheating

1. Reheat the stew to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) or above, either in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
2. When reheating, ensure the stew reaches a minimum temperature of 74°C (165°F) throughout.

Remember to always check the stew for any signs of spoilage before consuming it, even if it has been stored properly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

Even with a tried-and-true recipe like Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew, issues can arise. To ensure the best results, it’s essential to identify and address common problems. The following are some potential issues and their solutions:

• Overcooking: If the stew becomes too thick or the meat is overcooked, it may be due to excessive heat or cooking time. To fix, reduce the heat to 165°C / 325°F and add a small amount of water (120 ml / 1/2 cup) to adjust the consistency.
• Underseasoning: If the stew lacks flavor, it may be due to insufficient seasoning. Add more salt (6 g / 1 tsp), black pepper (3 g / 1/2 tsp), or other desired seasonings to taste.
• Lack of richness: If the stew seems too thin or lacks richness, it may be due to inadequate reduction or insufficient tomato paste (60 g / 1/4 cup). Simmer the stew for an additional 30 minutes to reduce the liquid and intensify the flavors.

By being aware of these common issues and their solutions, it’s possible to create a delicious and authentic Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew. Remember to monitor the stew’s temperature, seasoning, and consistency to achieve the best results.

Nutritional Information for Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

This hearty Brunswick stew is packed with flavor and nutrients. A single serving (about 240 g / 1 cup) provides approximately 350 calories, with 15 grams of protein, 50 grams of carbohydrates, and 10 grams of fat.

The stew is a good source of fiber, thanks to the abundance of vegetables, and also offers a variety of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and iron.

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 15 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams per serving
• Fat: 10 grams per serving

Diet Tags: Not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.

Key Takeaways from the Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew Recipe

This recipe provides valuable insights into creating a delicious and authentic Brunswick stew. The essential points to note include the use of a combination of meats, such as pork, beef, and chicken, which adds depth and richness to the stew.

• Using a variety of vegetables, including onions, carrots, and potatoes, which add natural sweetness and texture to the dish.
• Implementing a long-simmering process, which allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender, typically at a temperature of 180°C / 350°F for at least 2 hours.
• Incorporating a balance of spices, including salt, black pepper, and paprika, to enhance the overall flavor profile.

The lessons learned from this recipe highlight the importance of patience, as the slow-cooking process is crucial for developing the stew’s characteristic flavor. Additionally, using high-quality ingredients, such as 450 g / 1 lb of meat and 240 g / 1 cup of vegetables, ensures a hearty and satisfying final product.

A Taste of History

This Brunswick stew recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a story. Growing up, the aroma of simmering Brunswick stew wafting from my grandmother’s kitchen was a sure sign of a family gathering. It was always a potluck of sorts, with everyone bringing a side dish to accompany this hearty stew.

The recipe has been passed down through generations, each family adding their own unique twist. My grandmother swore by using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and I’ve carried that tradition forward. The slow simmering process, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, is key to achieving that rich, savory taste that makes Brunswick stew so comforting.

A Few Notes From My Kitchen

• Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking. Some folks like it a little hotter, while others prefer a milder stew.
• For a thicker stew, you can add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) towards the end of cooking.
• Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew

With its rich, meaty flavors and velvety texture, this Old Hickory House Brunswick Stew recipe is a true Southern classic. We hope you’ve enjoyed cooking and savoring every bite as much as we have. If you’re looking for more authentic Southern flavors, be sure to explore our collection of traditional recipes, including our famous Pulled Pork and Biscuits or our mouthwatering Fried Green Tomatoes. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own – add your favorite spices or ingredients to give it a personal touch. Happy cooking!

• Try our Pulled Pork and Biscuits recipe for a Southern comfort food staple.
• Discover the tangy delight of our Fried Green Tomatoes recipe.