What Meat Is Used In Kentucky's Cozy Burgoo Stew?

Burgoo variations to try

Given its adaptable nature, burgoo is far from restricted to specific cuts of meat or flavors. Numerous barbecue establishments in Kentucky now offer their own distinctive versions of burgoo, featuring a wide array of meats. You might even encounter a breakfast-inspired burgoo complete with grits and eggs. Meanwhile, the Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn in Owensboro, Kentucky, continues to serve a more traditional stew made with mutton, reminiscent of the original taste when burgoo enthusiasts used smaller game.

It's worth noting that, despite its modest origins, burgoo is not exempt from culinary experimentation. Some purveyors of this cherished local dish incorporate higher-quality, more expensive cuts of meat into their recipes. Duck, often referred to as "liquid gold" for its rich fat, is a popular choice. Other options like ribeye, wagyu, and even Cornish game hen are also worth considering. Dudley's on Short, a fine-dining restaurant in Lexington, presents its own refined interpretation of burgoo, served deconstructed with lamb loin, cornbread-fried lamb, and rabbit croquette. Who would have thought that a dish called burgoo could be so sophisticated? Ultimately, however, as it has been for generations, your burgoo is a reflection of your own creativity. This rule-free dish can be crafted with any meat you have on hand, embodying the true essence of burgoo.