Baked beans are a timeless dish that combines earthy flavors with a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course, this recipe will have you savoring each bite. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these baked beans are sure to please. Get ready to dive into a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
– 2 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of diced bacon
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup of ketchup
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 1 hour.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 250 calories, 10g of protein, 15g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 5g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion in the bacon fat until soft.
4. In a large bowl, combine the navy beans, cooked bacon, and sautéed onions.
5. Add ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard powder, and smoked paprika to the bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the top to caramelize slightly.
10. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute navy beans with kidney beans or pinto beans for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it altogether. Honey or maple syrup can also be used instead of brown sugar for natural sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
Baked beans pair well with grilled meats, cornbread, or a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed on their own or as a filling for tacos for a unique twist.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary. Baked beans can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Not rinsing canned beans can lead to excess sodium.
– Overcooking the bacon may make it too crunchy.
– Skipping the cover during the first part of baking can dry out the beans.
– Using too much sugar can overpower the savory flavors.
– Forgetting to season may result in bland beans.
– Not allowing enough baking time can prevent proper thickening.
– Ignoring the resting time can affect flavor development.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different beans for variety.
– Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
– Add chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
– Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance presentation.
– If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
– Let the beans sit for a few minutes after baking for better texture.
FAQs
Can I make baked beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare baked beans in a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows for deep flavor infusion.
How do I thicken baked beans?
If your baked beans are too watery, you can thicken them by baking uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes or by adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before following the rest of the recipe.
What are some variations of baked beans?
Variations include adding barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor, using different types of beans, or incorporating veggies like bell peppers or jalapeños for added texture and taste.
How long do baked beans last in the fridge?
Baked beans can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating.
Can I make baked beans ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked beans a day in advance and reheat them before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Conclusion
Baked beans are a delicious and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture that make baked beans a beloved classic!
Baked Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans 15 oz each of navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of diced bacon
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1/2 cup of ketchup
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion in the bacon fat until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine the navy beans, cooked bacon, and sautéed onions.
- Add ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard powder, and smoked paprika to the bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the top to caramelize slightly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
