By Liz Mitchell
Quick food quiz: What do you get when you put chicken, pork, beef, squirrel, rabbit, tomatoes, lima beans, corn, okra and a few more vegetables to cook in a big pot for a few hours over an outdoor open fire?
Well, not all of these items are needed. It might not have any squirrel or rabbit, and maybe not all of those other ingredients either. But Brunswick stew has more unique recipes and special ingredients than can be counted. The main secrets to this famed dish are the lengthy cooking time and the thickness of the rich stew, which differentiates it from soup.
Brunswick County, V.A., and Brunswick, G.A., take some credit for its origin. We don’t claim to have originated it, but in Brunswick County, N.C., we do claim to cook it up just fine. Come out and celebrate the
Brunswick Stew Cook-Off, January 30. It’s guaranteed to be a mouth-watering event from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., at Rourk Woods in Shallotte. Directions and more details are on the
Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce Web site. Admission to the event is free, and tasting tickets are available for purchase.
Prepare for some delicious flavors. Up to 10 competitors in each of five categories will cook their own version of the stew.
Live entertainment will be provided by
Jaded Mayberry as well as additional food vendors; some beer to make a perfect pairing; plus local arts and crafts exhibits and activities for kids will round out a great day at this exciting event.