Kentucky Burgoo
A deeply savory, slow-simmered Kentucky stew loaded with tender mutton, chicken, and a colorful medley of vegetables like lima beans, corn, and okra. This thick, hearty one-pot meal has been a Bluegrass State tradition for generations—perfect for Derby Day gatherings or any cool evening when you crave true Southern comfort.
For 8 servings
- prep · ~15 min
Brown the mutton.
1.Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.2.Season mutton chunks lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper.3.Sear mutton in batches until browned on all sides, about 4 minutes per batch.4.Transfer browned mutton to a plate and set aside.TIPDon't crowd the pot—brown the meat in batches for a deeper flavor base. - simmer · ~120 min
Simmer the meats until tender.
1.Return mutton to the pot and add chicken pieces.2.Pour in 10 cups water and add bay leaves.3.Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.4.Cover and simmer for 2 hours, or until mutton is fork-tender.5.Remove meat with a slotted spoon and place on a cutting board.TIPSkim any foam that rises to the surface during the first 30 minutes for a clearer stew. - prep · ~10 min
Shred the meats.
1.When cool enough to handle, strip meat from bones.2.Discard bones and any large pieces of fat or skin.3.Shred or chop meat into bite-size pieces.4.Set shredded meat aside. - saute · ~10 min
Cook the aromatic vegetables.
1.Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the stockpot.2.Add diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat.3.Cook until softened and just starting to color, about 8 minutes.4.Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.TIPScrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pot while the onions cook—that's where the flavor lives. - simmer · ~45 min
Build the stew and simmer.
1.Return shredded mutton and chicken to the pot.2.Add crushed tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, lima beans, and corn.3.Add Worcestershire sauce and the remaining salt.4.Pour in enough cooking liquid to just cover the vegetables.5.Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. - simmer · ~15 min
Add okra and finish cooking.
1.Stir in sliced okra.2.Continue to simmer until okra is tender and stew is thick, about 15 minutes.3.Remove bay leaves and stir in apple cider vinegar.TIPOkra will help thicken the stew. For an even thicker burgoo, crush a few potato chunks against the side of the pot. - simmer · ~5 min
Adjust seasoning.
1.Taste and add cayenne pepper, adjusting to desired warmth.2.Stir in freshly ground black pepper.3.Simmer 5 more minutes for flavors to meld. - garnish
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For deeper flavor, brown the mutton in batches—crowding the pot leads to steaming instead of searing.
- 2Skim the foam and excess fat from the broth during the first 30 minutes of simmering for a cleaner, clearer stew.
- 3Shred the meats while they are still warm; cold meat is harder to pull apart and won't incorporate as well.
- 4Add the okra near the end to prevent it from turning slimy; 15 minutes is plenty to soften it and thicken the stew.
- 5For an even thicker burgoo, crush a few potato cubes against the side of the pot with your spoon before serving.
- 6Make this a day ahead—the flavors deepen overnight, and you can easily skim off any solidified fat before reheating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Beef & Pork Burgoo
Replace mutton with beef chuck and chicken with pork shoulder for a richer, slightly sweeter stew that's more accessible if lamb isn't available.
Smoky BurgooSmoky Burgoo
Add 1-2 smoked ham hocks or a smoked turkey leg during the initial simmer for a deep, smoky backbone that echoes traditional Appalachian cooking.
Low Carb / KetoLow-Carb / Keto
Omit the potatoes and lima beans, and add extra okra, cauliflower florets, and chopped cabbage to keep the stew hearty while cutting starches.
Vegan BurgooVegan Burgoo
Replace meats with cubed portobello mushrooms, canned chickpeas, and extra smoked paprika; use vegetable broth and a splash of liquid smoke for depth.
Spicy Kentucky BurgooSpicy Kentucky Burgoo
Double the cayenne and add 1-2 diced jalapeños with the onions, plus a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a dash of hot sauce at the end for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Both mutton and chicken provide high-quality animal protein, which supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
Good Source of Dietary Fiber
Lima beans, okra, and corn contribute soluble and insoluble fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Packed with Vitamins A and C
Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers deliver beta-carotene and vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
Naturally Gluten-Free
This stew contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Bone Broth Benefits
Simmering bone-in meats for two hours extracts collagen, gelatin, and minerals like calcium and magnesium into the broth.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. After browning the meats and sautéing the aromatics on the stovetop, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
