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Kentucky Burgoo Stew

Kentucky Burgoo Stew
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Kentucky Burgoo Stew is a traditional Southern slow-cooked stew combining a savory blend of pork, beef, and chicken with fresh vegetables and warm spices. This hearty, nutritious, and aromatic dish brings together generations of culinary heritage in a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience perfect for family gatherings and chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale

Meats

  • 1 lb pork, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 lb beef, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 lb chicken (optional), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 1 cup sliced okra
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chopped carrots (optional seasonal)
  • 1 cup lima beans or potatoes, diced (optional seasonal)

Herbs and Spices

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt, to taste

Liquids

  • 6 cups broth or stock (chicken, beef, or vegetable)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meats: Trim and cut pork, beef, and chicken into bite-sized pieces. Brown the meats over medium-high heat in a heavy-bottomed pot to develop a rich crust and to lock in the flavor.
  2. Sauté the aromatics and vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, garlic, and robust vegetables like carrots (if using), and sauté until softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base.
  3. Combine meats and liquids: Return the browned meats to the pot. Pour in the broth or stock and stir in chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add remaining vegetables: Once the stew starts to thicken, add quicker-cooking vegetables such as okra and fresh corn to maintain their texture and freshness.
  5. Slow cook and stir: Reduce heat to low and allow the stew to simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage flavors to meld deeply.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme and optionally a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching.
  • Browning meats adds an extra depth of flavor essential to the stew’s richness.
  • Layer vegetables by adding heartier ones first, softer ones later for perfect texture.
  • Simmer slowly for best flavor development; avoid rushing the cooking process.
  • Prepare a day ahead; flavors improve overnight for a richer taste.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute meats with mushrooms and beans.
  • Try adding smoked sausage or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor twist.
  • Add cayenne pepper or jalapeños if you prefer a spicy kick.
  • Perfect for slow cooker use; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to maintain consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: Kentucky Burgoo, Burgoo Stew, Southern stew, slow cooked stew, comfort food, hearty stew, traditional Southern recipe, pork beef chicken stew

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/kentucky-burgoo-stew/