Recipes

đŸ„˜ Kentucky Burgoo: A Hearty Stew with some Southern Soul

The Lintonian
By The Lintonian

📜 The Story Behind the Stew

Burgoo is more than a stew—it’s a tradition. Originating in 19th-century Kentucky, this dish was once made in massive iron kettles at political rallies, church picnics, and community gatherings. What went in? Whatever the locals had on-hand — venison, squirrel, rabbit, or pork. It simmered for hours until every flavor melted into a thick, rib-sticking meal, nourishing both stomachs and neighborly spirit.

Today, burgoo remains a staple of Kentucky Derby celebrations and small-town dive barbecues with recipes passed down and debated across generations. Our version honors that heritage while using ingredients most home cooks can find easily.

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 3–4 hours
Serves: 10–12 hearty portions

🛒 Ingredients

Meats:

  • 1Âœ lbs pork shoulder, cubed
  • 1Âœ lbs beef chuck, cubed
  • 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • (Optional: Âœ lb smoked sausage or shredded turkey)

Veggies:

  • 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup lima beans (frozen or fresh)
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 6 cups beef or chicken broth

Spices & Flavor:

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • Âœ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • A pinch of brown sugar

đŸČ Instructions

  1. Brown the meats:
    In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil. Brown the beef and pork in batches, seasoning with salt and pepper. Set aside. Repeat with chicken.
  2. Build the base:
    In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Simmer low and slow:
    Add all meats back to the pot. Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2 hours.
  4. Add vegetables:
    Stir in potatoes, carrots, lima beans, and corn. Continue to simmer uncovered for 60–90 minutes more, stirring occasionally. The stew should thicken and become rich.
  5. Taste and adjust:
    Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.

đŸ„„ Serving Suggestions

Traditionally served with cornbread or crusty bread, Kentucky Burgoo is perfect for large gatherings. Ladle into bowls and top with hot sauce or a splash of cider vinegar for that authentic frontier tang.