Introduction
Who doesn’t love baked beans? This comfort food classic has been a crowd-pleaser for generations. Whether you’re at a summer BBQ or enjoying a warm bowl on a chilly evening, baked beans always hit the spot. Despite being a popular dish, many people turn to canned beans instead of making them fresh. But the truth is, homemade baked beans are easy to make and undoubtedly taste better. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to making delicious baked beans, as well as some history of the dish, recipe variations, and health benefits.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making baked beans from scratch is simpler than you might think. While it may take several hours to complete, most of that time involves letting the beans cook. Just follow these instructions:
- Soak dried navy beans overnight in a large bowl of cold water. Rinse and drain before using.
- Sauté a diced onion and a few cloves of minced garlic in a Dutch oven until translucent.
- Add cooked ham, bacon, or sausage to the pot, stirring occasionally until browned on all sides.
- Stir in tomato sauce, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the soaked navy beans and enough water to cover them by about an inch. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These measurements should provide about 8-10 servings. Baked beans are a great option for meal prep as they can be refrigerated for up to a week and frozen for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
If you’re looking to mix it up, here are some different versions of baked beans you can try:
Classic Baked Beans with Bacon and Molasses
Use the above recipe, but omit the sausage and add diced bacon to the onion and garlic mixture. Swap out the apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a tangier flavor.
Vegan Baked Beans Made with Coconut Sugar
For a plant-based version, swap out the meat for mushrooms and use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar. Add some smoked paprika for a richer flavor.
Spicy Baked Beans with Jalapeño Peppers
Add diced jalapeño peppers to the onion and garlic mixture for a bit of heat. You can also use hot sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce.
History of Baked Beans
While baked beans are a beloved comfort food in the United States, they actually originated in Native American and British cuisines. Native Americans often cooked beans with maple syrup, while British settlers added molasses, salt pork, and baked them in earthenware pots. In the US, baked beans became a staple in the New England diet, often served on Saturday nights with brown bread.
During the American Civil War, canned baked beans were served to soldiers as a cheap and easy source of protein. Eventually, they became a popular household item and have since evolved to include various flavors and ingredients around the world.
Regional Differences
Baked beans can vary greatly depending on where you are in the world. Here are some of the most notable differences:
New England Baked Beans vs Southern-Style Baked Beans
New England-style baked beans are traditionally made with navy beans and flavored with molasses or maple syrup. The addition of salt pork is common. Southern-style baked beans use kidney beans and are flavored with bacon, onions, and BBQ sauce. These are usually sweeter than New England-style beans.
Creative Uses
Baked beans are delicious as a side dish, but they can also be used in unconventional ways:
Baked Bean Pizza
Spread leftover baked beans on a pizza crust and add toppings like onions, peppers, and cheese for a unique twist on pizza night.
Baked Bean Breakfast Dishes
Try baking eggs in a dish of leftover baked beans for a hearty breakfast option. You can also spread them on toast with avocado or bacon.
Baked Bean Quesadillas
Spread leftover baked beans on a tortilla and add cheese, corn, and diced peppers for a tasty quesadilla option.
Health Benefits
Baked beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. They’re also low in fat and calories, making them a great option for those watching their weight. The high fiber content can help regulate blood sugar levels and aid in digestion. Their nutrient density makes them a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Making baked beans from scratch is easy and rewarding. With our step-by-step guide, recipe variations, history, and health benefits, you have everything you need to get started. So next time you’re craving baked beans, skip the can and try making them fresh.