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#### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Meats**: Start by browning the chicken and pork (or beef) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
2. **Sauté Vegetables**: In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and garlic for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. This adds a great base of flavor to the stew.
3. **Add the Liquids and Seasonings**: Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
4. **Simmer the Stew**: Return the browned meats to the pot. Add the potatoes, lima beans, and corn. Stir everything together, cover the pot, and bring the stew to a simmer over low heat. Let the stew simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the meats are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. **Shred the Meat**: Once the stew has finished simmering, remove the chicken and pork (or beef) from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot, stirring it in to combine.
6. **Final Adjustments**: Taste the stew and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or barbecue sauce to suit your taste.
7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Ladle the Brunswick Stew into bowls and serve hot. It’s perfect on its own or with some cornbread or crusty rolls on the side.
### Tips for the Perfect Brunswick Stew
– **Slow Cook It**: For an even richer flavor, consider making your Brunswick Stew a day ahead and letting it sit overnight. The flavors will deepen and meld, making the stew even better the next day.
– **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. These additions will make the stew even heartier and add more texture.
– **Customize the Meat**: While traditional Brunswick Stew often includes chicken and pork, you can easily swap in beef, turkey, or even sausage. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or pulled pork, those work great as shortcuts!
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper to give your stew a spicy kick.
### Why Brunswick Stew is the Perfect Family Reunion Dish
There’s no better way to bring everyone together than with a big pot of **Brunswick Stew**. This dish is all about comfort, flavor, and family tradition, making it the perfect choice for a family reunion or any large gathering. Its rich history, customizable ingredients, and ability to feed a crowd make it a beloved favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you’re revisiting old family recipes or trying it for the first time, this stew is bound to become a cherished part of your next reunion. It’s more than just food; it’s a way to connect with the past and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
**So, the next time your family gathers together, make sure to serve up a big pot of Brunswick Stew—it’s sure to be a hit and a delicious part of your family’s tradition!**
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