The Hearty Embrace of Kentucky Burgoo for a Crowd

There are few culinary traditions that evoke the spirit of communal gathering quite like a simmering pot of Kentucky Burgoo. My first encounter with this legendary stew was not at a grand horse race, but at a raucous county fair, where the aroma of slow-cooked meats and hearty vegetables perfumed the humid summer air. It was a dish that felt as much a part of the landscape as the rolling bluegrass hills, a testament to resourceful cooking and the joy of sharing. The sheer scale of it, the centuries of history whispering from each spoonful, makes it more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a true taste of Kentucky heritage designed to bring people together.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: Variable, depending on available hands and scale
• Cook Time: 15 to 20 hours
• Total Time: 15 to 20 hours (plus prep)
• Servings: Feeds a very large crowd (Yields approximately 1200 gallons based on original recipe scale)
• Yield: Massive quantities, ideal for large events
• Dietary Type: Omnivore

Ingredients

This burgoo, a recipe handed down from the esteemed Mr. J.T. Looney, is built on a foundation of plentiful, robust ingredients. While the original quantities are designed for a legendary scale, remember that burgoo is forgiving and adaptable to smaller batches, though the spirit of abundance is key.

• 600 lbs stew meat (ensure it is lean, with no fat or bones)
• 200 lbs stewing chicken (stewing hens are preferred for their depth of flavor)
• 2000 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
• 5 bushels cabbage, chopped
• 200 lbs onions, peeled and chopped
• 60 (3-quart) cans tomatoes (#10 cans)
• 24 (3-quart) cans tomato puree (#10 cans)
• 18 (3-quart) cans corn (#10 cans)
• 24 (3-quart) cans carrots (#10 cans)
• Cayenne pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Tabasco sauce or A.1. Original Sauce, to taste

A note on wild game: For those looking to embrace an even more traditional approach, the original recipe suggests incorporating squirrels when in season. The guideline is about a dozen squirrels for every 100 gallons of burgoo. This adds an incredible depth and authenticity to the stew.

Equipment Needed

Given the substantial quantities of this recipe, the equipment will need to be equally impressive.

• Very large, sturdy iron kettles or industrial-sized stockpots capable of holding immense volumes.
• Wood fires for slow, outdoor cooking.
• Large ladles for stirring and serving.
• Cutting boards and sharp knives for preparing the vast quantities of vegetables and meat.
• Sturdy stirring implements that can handle the weight of the stew.

Instructions

The creation of Kentucky Burgoo is a labor of love, a communal endeavor that unfolds over many hours, best enjoyed with extra hands to help.

1. In your huge iron kettles, begin by combining the stew meat and stewing chicken. Add enough water to generously cover the meats.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a low simmer. Allow the meats to cook slowly, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface. This initial cooking phase helps to tenderize the meats and create a flavorful base.
3. Once the meats have begun to soften, it’s time to introduce the vegetables. Add the diced potatoes, chopped cabbage, and chopped onions to the kettles.
4. Next, incorporate the canned goods: the tomatoes, tomato puree, corn, and carrots.
5. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are well distributed.
6. The true magic of burgoo happens during its extended cooking period. Cook slowly outdoors over wood fires for 15 to 20 hours. During this time, the stew will gradually thicken as the ingredients meld and break down, creating an incredibly rich and complex flavor profile.
7. Periodically stir the burgoo to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the kettles. You will notice the stew thickening as it cooks – this is precisely what you want.
8. Season generously with salt and cayenne pepper to your preference. A touch of Tabasco sauce or A.1. Original Sauce can also add an extra layer of depth and tang. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the long cooking process.
9. If using squirrels, add them (cleaned and prepared) to the kettles during the cooking process, allowing them to braise and tenderize within the burgoo.

Expert Tips & Tricks

The art of burgoo lies in patience and embracing the rustic charm of slow cooking.

• The Power of the Wood Fire: Cooking over an open wood fire is integral to the authentic burgoo experience. The smoke imparts a subtle, desirable flavor that cannot be replicated indoors. If this is not feasible, aim for the lowest possible heat on your stovetop or in an oven, and be prepared to monitor it closely.
• Embrace the “Stewing” Meats: The cut of meat is crucial. Stewing meats, with their connective tissues, break down beautifully over the long cooking time, contributing to the rich, thick texture of the burgoo.
• Taste and Adjust: Throughout the 15-20 hours, don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning. The flavors will deepen and evolve significantly.
• The More, The Merrier: Burgoo is a dish for celebration. The more people involved in the preparation, the more enjoyable the process will be, and the faster the ingredients will be prepped!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Burgoo is best served piping hot, its aroma a beacon for hungry guests.

• Serving: Ladle the hearty burgoo generously into bowls. It’s a complete meal in itself, but traditionally served with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the rich broth. A simple side of coleslaw or cornbread can be a delightful accompaniment.
• Storage: Once cooled, burgoo can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well for several months. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutritional Information

(Note: Nutritional values are highly dependent on exact ingredient ratios and cooking methods for such a large-scale recipe. These are estimates for a generous serving.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1100.3 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	–	188 g
Total Fat	17 %	20.9 g
Saturated Fat	32 %	7.3 g
Cholesterol	36 %	177.2 mg
Sodium	59 %	305.6 mg
Total Carbohydrate	12 %	157.8 g
Dietary Fiber	52 %	21.9 g
Sugars	87 %	17.5 g
Protein	70 %	76.5 g
	153 %	–

Variations & Substitutions

While Mr. Looney’s recipe is the gold standard, burgoo is a dish that invites personal touches.

• Game Meats: Beyond squirrels, other game meats like venison, rabbit, or even various fowl can be incorporated, provided they are prepared appropriately for stewing.
• Vegetable Additions: Some variations include okra, green beans, or sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce to suit your heat preference. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne.

FAQs

Q: What is Kentucky Burgoo traditionally served for?
A: Burgoo is a celebratory dish, often served at events like Derby Day gatherings, political rallies, horse sales, and other outdoor festivals in Kentucky.

Q: Why does burgoo cook for so long?
A: The extended cooking time allows the various meats and vegetables to break down, meld their flavors, and create the signature rich, thick texture of burgoo.

Q: Can I make burgoo indoors?
A: While traditionally cooked outdoors over wood fires, you can adapt the recipe for indoor cooking by using large, heavy-bottomed pots on your stovetop or in a slow cooker, ensuring very low and slow heat.

Q: Is burgoo the same as Mulligan stew?
A: Burgoo is often described as akin to Mulligan stew, a hearty, improvisational stew, but burgoo has its own distinct historical lineage and specific ingredient profile, particularly within Kentucky.

Q: How many types of meat are typically in burgoo?
A: Traditionally, burgoo is a multi-meat stew, often incorporating beef, chicken, and sometimes game meats like squirrel for a complex flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

There’s an undeniable magic in a pot of burgoo simmering for hours, a testament to the enduring power of shared food and tradition. This recipe, rooted in the legacy of J.T. Looney, invites you to gather your friends, embrace the process, and create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or scaling it down for a smaller celebration, the spirit of Kentucky Burgoo is about generosity, comfort, and the joy of a meal made with love. Enjoy every hearty, flavorful spoonful!