What are Baked Beans? What are baked beans? What kind of barbecue have you been a staple at every family barbecue, potluck, and holiday gathering? Forget canned beans swimming in sugary syrup – this is the real deal. Think of these as the slightly more sophisticated, deeply flavorful cousin of your everyday canned goods. How do you make a delicious stew? What are some of the best baked beans recipes?
What is a Baked Bean recipe?
Baked Beans are a humble dish of beans slow-cooked in an aromatic sauce. Why don’t you let simplicity fool you? This particular Baked Beans Recipe elevates the concept with a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet sauce. What is far from ordinary? What is comfort food in a bowl? Think of it as a bean stew, only way more interesting. Why is this a family favorite?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are so many reasons why this Baked Beans recipe is a winner. First, the flavor! The combination of smoky bacon, sweet molasses, and tangy mustard creates a symphony of tastes that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Second, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Yes, it requires some time for slow cooking, but the hands-on time is minimal, and you can easily set it and forget it while you tackle other things. What I love most about this baked beans recipe is its cost-effectiveness. Beans are incredibly budget-friendly, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that most home cooks already have on hand. Plus, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd. Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside grilled meats, use it as a filling for baked potatoes, or simply enjoy it on toast for a comforting and satisfying meal. Trust me; it’s miles above your standard bean offering.
How do I make baked beans?
Quick Overview
Making this Baked Beans recipe is easier than you might think! It all starts with soaking your dried beans overnight (or using the quick-soak method if you’re short on time). Then, you’ll sauté some bacon and onions, add the beans and a magical blend of spices, molasses, and mustard, and let it all simmer low and slow until the beans are perfectly tender and the sauce is thick and luscious. It’s mostly hands-off, which is fantastic, and the result is absolutely worth the wait.
Ingredients
For the Main Event:
* 1 pound dried navy beans: Be sure to rinse them well and pick out any debris.
* 6 slices bacon, diced: I prefer thick-cut bacon for extra flavor.
* 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works great.
* 1/2 cup molasses: This is what gives the beans that classic baked bean sweetness and depth. What is the best flavor of unsulphured molasses?
* 1/4 cup packed Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown will work fine.
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the sweetness.
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a nice bit of zip.
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This gives a nice umami flavor.
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For that essential smoky flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard: This enhances the mustardy flavour.
* 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
* 6 cups water, plus more for soaking: Use filtered water for best flavour.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Soak Those Beans!
How do you rinse navy beans? Cover with plenty of cold water – at least 2 inches above the beans. Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or overnight. For a quicker soak, bring the beans and water to sour, then simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let them soak for 1 hour.
Step 2: Render the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot. That bacon grease is liquid gold for flavour! Don’t skip this part.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon grease and cook over medium heat until softened. Remove from heat and set aside. Is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot with the softened onions. Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and salt. What are the ingredients for bacon: paprika, dry mustard, Black Pepper, and cooked bacon. How do I make sure the beans are covered in water? Pour in 6 cups of water.
Step 5: Simmer, Simmer, Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick before the beans are tender, add more water, about 1/2 cup at a time.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Once the beans are tender, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. What are some good substitutes for hot sauce?
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Baked Beans hot, garnished with extra bacon, if desired. What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled meats, cornbread, or coleslaw?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best baked beans recipes? For a classic barbecue spread, serve them alongside grilled ribs, pulled pork, or burgers. What are some good side dishes to serve with cornbread, coleslaw, and potato salad? What are the best BBQ foods?For a Casual Meal:Serve beans with Grilled Cheese sandwiches or hot dogs for a comforting and satisfying meal. What is a week The sweetness of the beans complements the savory flavors of this sandwich perfectly.
For Brunch:What are some good side dishes to serve with beans, bacon, and toast?
For a Potluck:Bring a large pot of these beans to your next potluck gathering. They’re always a crowd-pleaser and are sure to be an instant hit with everyone.
Growing up, my family always had these with grilled hotdogs and potato salad. Is it a combo that is hard to beat?
How do I make baked beans?
What is the best way to take your Baked Beans game to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?Bacon Matters: Don’t skimp on the bacon! The bacon grease is essential for adding flavor to the beans. I like to use thick-cut bacon for extra richness, and sometimes I even add a few slices of chopped ham for even more smoky goodness.
Slow and Low: Patience is key! The longer the beans simmer, the more flavorful and tender they will become. I recommend simmering them for at least 3-4 hours, or even longer if you have the time. I’ve even let them simmer for 6 hours on low. Just be sure to check them occasionally and add more water if needed.
Spice it Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices. In addition to smoked paprika and dry mustard, you can add a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat. My grandpa liked to add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for an extra layer of smokiness. I like to throw in a jalapeño or two, but make sure to remove the seeds if you aren’t a fan of spice.
Molasses Magic:Use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor. Is blackstrap molasses bitter?
Vinegar Variety: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tanginess to the beans, but you can also use white vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet version, start with 1/4 cup and add more if needed. You could also use maple syrup or honey as a substitute for brown sugar.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have navy beans, you can use other types of beans, such as Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, or even kidney beans. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of bean you use.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These baked beans are even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together even more.
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave baked beans at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that point, bacteria can start to grow.
Refrigerator Storage: To store the beans in the refrigerator, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked beans. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the beans, simply transfer them to a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Add a splash of water if they seem too thick. You can add them to a Slow Cooker and let them heat up all day, too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This baked beans recipe is a true taste of home for me. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s one that I always make with love. The incredible flavor and the ease of preparation make it a winner in my book. If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and create your own memories with it. If you love this, you should check out my chili recipe! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations!
Baked Beans Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried kidney beans soaked overnight
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 cup ketchup
- 4 cups water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, combine all ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
