📜 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:
- 1½ lbs pork shoulder, cubed
- 1½ lbs beef chuck, cubed
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- (Optional: ½ 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)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 bay leaves
- A pinch of brown sugar
🍲 Instructions
- 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. - Build the base:
In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. - 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. - 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. - Taste and adjust:
Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
🥄 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.