Kentucky Burgoo: The Ultimate Multi-Meat Stew That Feeds an Army

Quick Facts:

– Prep Time: 30-45 minutes
– Cook Time: 2-4 hours
– Total Time: 2.5-5 hours
– Servings: 8-16
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Cost: Moderate to High

Dietary Info:

– Type: Omnivorous
– Adaptable: Poultry-only, Vegetarian possible
– Allergens: Alliums, potential gluten

Equipment Needed:

– Large stockpot (8+ quarts)
– Chef’s knife
– Cutting board
– Wooden spoon
– Ladle

Ingredients:

Meats:

– 3 lbs Pork shoulder
– 3 lbs Beef chuck roast
– 4 Chicken thighs
– Optional: Game meats

Vegetables:

– 1 Large onion
– 1 Green bell pepper
– 2 Large carrots
– 2 Celery ribs
– 2-3 Large potatoes
– 28 oz Crushed tomatoes
– 1 lb Frozen corn
– 1 lb Lima beans

Seasonings:

– 4-8 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper
– 1 tbsp Poultry seasoning
– 5-6 Garlic cloves

Method:

1. Cube meats and season with salt
2. Chop all vegetables; prepare potatoes
3. Heat oil in large pot; brown meats in batches
   
   Critical: Do not crowd the pot
   
   Aim: Deep golden color, not steamed
4. Remove meats; sauté vegetables
   
   – Add garlic in final minute
   
   – Deglaze pot with stock or beer
5. Return meats to pot
   
   – Add stocks, tomatoes, Worcestershire
   
   – Include potatoes and remaining vegetables
6. Simmer gently for 2-4 hours
   
   Target temperature: 165°F for meats
   
   Texture: Thick enough for spoon to stand
7. Taste and adjust seasonings
   
   – Add salt, pepper as needed
   
   – Consider hot sauce or chives for garnish

Pro Tips:

– Burgoo improves after 1-2 days
– Freezes excellently
– Traditional rule: If you can recognize ingredients, it’s not authentic!

Variations:

– Vegetarian: Replace meats with mushrooms/lentils
– Game meat version: Add venison or rabbit
– Whiskey splash for extra Kentucky flair

Storage:

– Refrigerate 5 days
– Freeze up to 3 months
– Reheat gently, add broth if needed

Common Mistakes:

– Overcrowding meat during browning
– Under-seasoning
– Cooking vegetables to mush

Serving Suggestions:

– Jalapeno cornbread
– Hot sauce
– Chopped chives

Cultural Note:

Kentucky burgoo isn’t just a recipe—it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and making something extraordinary from humble ingredients.

Bon appétit, y’all! 🥘🇺🇸