If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul, look no further than this baked beans recipe. It features tender beans simmered in a rich, savory sauce, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal or a hearty standalone dish. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this baked beans recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 2 cups dried navy beans (or canned)
– 1/2 cup onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 tablespoon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups water (for dried beans)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with a cooking time of 2 hours for dried beans (or 30 minutes for canned beans).
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of this baked beans recipe contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fiber: 10g
– Fat: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. If using dried beans, rinse them under cold water and soak overnight.
2. Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot.
3. Add 4 cups of fresh water to the pot with the beans.
4. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1-1.5 hours until beans are tender.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the onion, brown sugar, ketchup, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Once the beans are cooked, drain any excess water and add them to the sauce mixture.
9. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover it.
10. Bake in the oven for 30-45 minutes, until bubbly and heated through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute navy beans with other types of beans, such as pinto or black beans. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of water. Adjust the sweetness with maple syrup or agave nectar if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Baked beans are a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats, cornbread, or a fresh salad. They can also be served as a hearty breakfast alongside eggs and toast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not soaking dried beans long enough, leading to longer cooking times.
- Using too much sugar, making the dish overly sweet.
- Not seasoning enough; always taste and adjust seasoning.
- Overcooking the beans, which can make them mushy.
- Not covering the dish while baking, causing the beans to dry out.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for added flavor.
- Use a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off approach.
- Incorporate cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Consider adding chopped bell peppers for extra texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, using canned beans is a great time-saver. Drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce mixture, and reduce the baking time to about 30 minutes.
How do I know when baked beans are done?
Baked beans are done when they are bubbly and heated through. If using dried beans, ensure they are tender before baking.
Can I make baked beans in advance?
Absolutely! Baked beans can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for the best flavor.
What can I serve with baked beans?
Baked beans pair well with grilled meats, cornbread, coleslaw, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Are baked beans healthy?
Baked beans can be a healthy choice when made with minimal added sugars and fats. They are high in protein and fiber, making them filling and nutritious.
Conclusion
This baked beans recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether as a side or a main dish, you’ll find this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Baked Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans or canned
- 1/2 cup onion chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water for dried beans
Instructions
- If using dried beans, rinse them under cold water and soak overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot.
- Add 4 cups of fresh water to the pot with the beans.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1-1.5 hours until beans are tender.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the onion, brown sugar, ketchup, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the beans are cooked, drain any excess water and add them to the sauce mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover it.
- Bake in the oven for 30-45 minutes, until bubbly and heated through.
Nutrition
