If you're looking for a hearty, warming dish that brings all the comfort of a Midwestern tradition, Booyah is the perfect choice. This chunky stew combines tender chunks of beef and chicken with a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich broth that is sure to satisfy. Perfect for family gatherings or as a cozy dinner on a chilly night, Booyah is a must-try for anyone who loves a filling, flavor-packed meal.

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The Inspiration Behind Booyah

Booyah is more than just a stew—it's a Midwestern classic, often served at large gatherings like church suppers and family reunions. With its roots in Belgian immigrant communities, this dish is beloved for its versatility and hearty ingredients. Traditionally cooked in huge batches, Booyah combines slow-cooked meats, vegetables, and a savory broth, making it the ultimate comfort food. It’s a dish that celebrates community, warmth, and flavor, offering a little taste of home with every bite.

Why You’ll Love Booyah

• Rich and Savory: The combination of beef and chicken, simmered with vegetables in a seasoned broth, results in a flavorful, robust dish.
• Perfect for Cold Weather: Booyah’s warming and hearty nature makes it ideal for winter months or whenever you need a cozy meal.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe is perfect for serving a large family or gathering, making it great for events or meal prepping.
• Customizable: Adjust the veggies and spices to your preference, or add a spicy kick with jalapeños and hot sauce for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fiber: 7g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Booyah is a standalone meal, but you can make it even more special with these additions:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the rich broth.
• Side Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the stew.
• Drink Pairings: Pair with a robust beer, like a dark lager or stout, or opt for a glass of red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Booyah freezes well! Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a bit of broth or water if the stew has thickened too much.

Fun Fact: The History of Booyah

Booyah originated in the Belgian immigrant communities of the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin. It’s often cooked in large, outdoor kettles at festivals, making it as much of a social event as a meal. The word "Booyah" is said to come from "bouillon," the French word for broth, though no one knows for sure. What we do know is that Booyah has become a cherished dish, celebrated for its ability to feed a crowd and warm the soul.

Cooking Tips

• Cut the meat into even chunks: For even cooking, make sure all the meat pieces are cut into roughly the same size.
• Low and slow: Booyah is best when simmered slowly over a low heat. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
• Adjust the heat: If you like your stew spicy, don’t hesitate to add more jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Optional Variations

• Spice it up: Add more jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Vegetable swap: Feel free to substitute or add more veggies like parsnips, turnips, or even squash to the mix.
• Meat alternatives: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use all chicken or swap in turkey for the beef.

Drink Pairings

• Alcoholic: A hearty dark beer like a stout or a Belgian-style ale would complement the robust flavors of the stew. A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel also pairs wonderfully.
• Non-Alcoholic: A ginger beer or sparkling water with lime offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.

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Booyah Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2.5 pounds chuck roast or other stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large green pepper, chopped
• 2-3 jalapeño peppers, chopped (optional, for spice)
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 8 cups chicken stock (or use beef stock)
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Hot Sauce to taste + more for serving
• 2 bay leaves
• 1.5 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1.5 cups corn (frozen or fresh)
• 1.5 cups peas (frozen or fresh)
• 1 cup green beans, chopped (frozen or fresh)
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chuck roast and chicken thighs in batches, searing the meat on all sides until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, green pepper, jalapeños (if using), carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Simmer the broth: Add the chicken stock, crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 30 minutes.
4. Add the meat and vegetables: Add the browned meat, potatoes, cabbage, corn, peas, and green beans to the pot. Stir well, then cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
5. Season and serve: Season the stew with salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional hot sauce if desired.

Final Thoughts

Booyah is the ultimate Midwestern comfort food, combining hearty meats, vegetables, and a flavorful broth for a soul-warming meal. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this stew is sure to become a favorite. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, Booyah is an easy, delicious option for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic Midwestern stew!