Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1/2 pound bacon, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water
Special equipment needed:
- Dutch oven or large oven-safe pot with lid
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Drain and rinse soaked beans.
3. In a Dutch oven or large oven-safe pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
4. Add onion to the pot and cook until softened.
5. Add beans, molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, salt, black pepper, and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 4-5 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 4-5 hours
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 300°F
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 320
- Total fat: 9g
- Total carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Navy beans can be substituted with other white beans such as Great Northern or cannellini beans.
- Bacon can be substituted with ham or salt pork.
- Molasses can be substituted with maple syrup or honey.
- Ketchup can be substituted with tomato sauce or tomato paste.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with granulated sugar or honey.
Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Use different types of beans for a unique flavor.
- Add diced apples or pineapple for a fruity twist.
- Top with breadcrumbs or cheese before baking for a crunchy topping.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the beans overnight will help them cook faster and more evenly.
- Stir the beans occasionally while baking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes to thicken it up.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat baked beans in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve baked beans in individual bowls or on a platter.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Pairings:
- Serve with cornbread or biscuits.
- Pair with grilled meats such as ribs or chicken.
Suggested side dishes:
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beans are still hard after baking, add more water and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Always soak beans before cooking to reduce cooking time and prevent digestive issues.
- Make sure the beans are fully cooked before serving to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Baked beans have been a staple in American cuisine since the colonial era.
- Native Americans and early colonists used beans as a source of protein and sustenance.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, smoky, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish at a barbecue or potluck.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A