Who in this world does not tipple baked beans? Delicious in their own right but filling in as a side dish or main dish, or even better, as a breakfast meal, baked beans are a tasty and versatile dish. Filled with flavour and nutrient dense, they are used in almost all cultures globally. The good news is that making baked beans at home is easier than it seems!
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups of dried navy beans (or any beans of your choice)
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup of molasses
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of water or vegetable broth
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for added flavor
- A dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
- 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for tanginess
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences
- Use maple syrup instead of molasses for a natural sweetener.
- Swap bacon with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- Choose low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
Why Make Baked Beans at Home?
Using fresh baked beans at home will always be better than the commercial ones since you are fully in charge of the process, the ingredients therefore no preservatives, less sugar, healthy options. Moreover, which lends a unique freedom to adjust the recipe to its user’s preference: smoky barbecued or spicy.
Types of Beans to Use
Navy Beans
Navy beans are the most common choice for baked beans due to their small size and creamy texture.
Great Northern Beans
These larger beans hold their shape well and work wonderfully in recipes with chunky sauces.
Pinto Beans
For a slightly nuttier flavor, pinto beans are a fantastic option.
Preparing Your Beans
Soaking Methods
- Overnight Soak: Rinse the beans and soak them in water overnight.
- Quick Soak: Boil the beans for 1-2 minutes, then let them sit for an hour.
Cooking the Beans
Once soaked, cook the beans in fresh water for 45 minutes to 1 hour until tender.
The Sauce That Makes It Special
Sweet and Tangy Flavor
When making baked beans, the best combination includes the right percentage of sweet, tangy and savory ingredients.
Key Ingredients for the Sauce
- Tomato sauce as the base.
- Molasses and brown sugar for sweetness.
- Mustard and vinegar for tanginess.
- Smoked paprika for depth and a hint of smokiness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Beans
Preparing the Ingredients
- Cook the beans as outlined above.
- Chop the onions and garlic.
Cooking on the Stove
- Heat oil in a large skillet.
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, molasses, brown sugar, and spices.
Baking in the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine the cooked beans and sauce in an oven-safe dish.
- Cover and bake for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid in the last 30 minutes for a thicker consistency.
Variations of Baked Beans
Vegetarian Baked Beans
Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian dish.
Smoky Barbecue Baked Beans
Add 1/4 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Spicy Baked Beans
Incorporate chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information Per Serving
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving | Daily Value (%DV) (based on a 2,000-calorie diet) |
| Calories | 230 kcal | 12% |
| Protein | 8 g | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g | 14% |
| – Fiber | 7 g | 28% |
| – Sugar | 18 g | – |
| Fat | 3 g | 5% |
| – Saturated Fat | 0.5 g | 3% |
| Sodium | 400 mg | 17% |
| Potassium | 700 mg | 20% |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg | 9% |
| Calcium | 80 mg | 8% |
Key Nutritional Highlights
- High in Fiber: Thanks to the beans, this recipe is an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting heart health.
- Rich in Protein: A plant-based protein source makes it a great option for vegetarians or as a side dish for added nutrition.
- Low in Fat: With minimal fat, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
- Packed with Micronutrients: It’s rich in potassium, iron, and calcium, all of which are essential for maintaining healthy bodily functions.
Tips to Adjust Nutritional Values
- Lower Sugar Content: Reduce the brown sugar and molasses for a lower-sugar version.
- Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and skip adding extra salt.
- Boost Protein: Add extra beans or a protein-rich ingredient like cooked lentils.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans
Enhancing Flavor
- Let the beans sit overnight for deeper flavors.
- Add a touch of Worcestershire sauce for umami.
Storing and Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Pairing Suggestions
One of the best things about this baked beans recipe is that it goes well with almost anything that has been grilled, newly baked corn muffins or a fresh green salad. They also are best served on baked potatoes!
Conclusion
A homemade baked bean recipe is one meal that is easily within your price range and packed with nutrition that can be easily … You won’t believe how easy it is to cook beans and this type of recipe will make you forgo the canned ones. Therefore, let your hands do the work and head to the kitchen!
FAQs
- How long can baked beans be stored?
Baked beans can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container. - Can I make baked beans in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and beans, then cook on low for 6-8 hours. - What’s the best type of sugar to use?
Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor, but you can use white sugar or even honey as substitutes. - Are baked beans healthy?
Yes! Homemade baked beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. - Can I freeze baked beans? Yes, baked beans freeze well. Let them cool completely, then store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
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