Description
Burgoo is a rich and hearty Southern American stew that combines tender cuts of beef, pork, and chicken with a flavorful mix of vegetables and spices. This ultimate comfort food simmers slowly on the stovetop, blending savory broths, tomatoes, and smoky seasonings to create a thick, satisfying dish perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats
- 1 pound boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 1 cup chopped okra
Liquids & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef chuck and pork shoulder, searing them until browned on all sides. Remove the browned meat from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same pot, add the boneless chicken thighs and cook until lightly browned. This helps lock in flavor and texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and softened, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef and pork to the pot along with the chicken. Pour in the beef broth, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juices, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the diced potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, chopped okra, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, optional cayenne pepper, bay leaves, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmer allows the meats to become tender and the stew to thicken.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve the burgoo hot, ideally paired with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete comfort meal.
Notes
- Burgoo tastes even better the next day as the flavors fully meld together.
- Serve with cornbread or crusty bread to complement the hearty stew.
- Replace or add lamb or venison to the meat mix for a traditional Kentucky twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American (Southern)
