Liz's New Brunswick Stew

Liz's New Brunswick Stew: A Family Favorite

My family has always been a big fan of hearty, comforting stews, and this New Brunswick Stew recipe is a true family favorite. It's a dish that evokes warm memories of cozy nights gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a tradition, a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. And the best part? It's surprisingly easy to make, even for a busy mom like myself!

The key to a truly great New Brunswick Stew lies in the careful balance of flavors. The sweetness of the corn and brown sugar complements the savory notes of the chicken, pork, and tomatoes. The subtle tang of apple cider vinegar adds a delightful complexity, while the Texas Pete brings a touch of welcome heat. I love experimenting with different vegetables; sometimes I add green beans or peas, depending on what's fresh and in season. But, no okra—we're definitely not in Alabama anymore!

I usually start with a good-sized chicken – around 4-5 pounds. Boiling it allows me to extract the rich, flavorful broth, which I then use as the base for the stew. Simmering the vegetables in this broth adds an incredible depth of flavor you just won't get otherwise. While the chicken simmers, I prep the other ingredients. Chopping vegetables is a meditative process for me, a quiet time to unwind before the rush of cooking begins.

Once the chicken is cooked, I shred it and set it aside, carefully returning the bones to the broth to add further richness. Then, it's a simple matter of adding the potatoes, carrots, butter beans, and corn to the simmering broth and cooking until they’re tender. I’m careful not to overcook the vegetables; I want them to retain a little bit of their bite. Then comes the magic: the sauce! The combination of ketchup, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and a generous dash of Texas Pete truly elevates this stew to another level.

The addition of pulled pork barbecue adds a smoky depth that complements the richness of the chicken. I often have some leftover from a previous barbecue, but you can easily buy it at a store or restaurant. Finally, the stew simmers gently, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. The slow simmer is crucial; it’s what transforms a simple collection of ingredients into a symphony of flavors.

The beauty of this stew is its versatility. It’s perfect for a chilly evening, a comforting meal after a long day, or a hearty lunch to fuel a busy afternoon. And the best part is, it’s even better the next day! The flavors have a chance to deepen and blend, creating an even more complex and delicious stew. I usually end up with at least 5 quarts, enough to feed the family and still have plenty to freeze for later. It's a dish that keeps on giving, a true testament to the magic of home-cooked meals and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

This New Brunswick Stew isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory, a story passed down through generations. It’s a reminder that the simplest ingredients, combined with love and care, can create something truly extraordinary. So gather your family, settle in, and enjoy this heartwarming, delicious stew—a taste of home, wherever you are.

So, are you ready to try this hearty, flavorful stew? Let me know in the comments how it turns out! And feel free to share your own tips and variations. Every family has its own special twist, and I'd love to hear yours!

Step-by-step

• Boil the chicken (about 1.5 hours)
• Save the broth, add celery, onions, garlic and carrots and let simmer for several hours
• Shred the chicken, set aside. (throw the bones back in your broth)
• Rinse butter beans and corn.
• Add potatoes, carrots and cover with a little water.
• Cook until veggies are almost done.
• Remove excess liquid until the veggies are just covered.
• Mix the rest of the ingredients together and add to the veggies.
• Add meats.
• Simmer on low heat for 30-45 min. If more liquid is needed, add some of that broth.