Baked Beans Recipe from Scratch: A Delicious Homemade Treat
Are you ready to ditch the canned stuff and dive into the world of homemade baked beans? This recipe will guide you through creating a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying batch of baked beans from scratch. Forget those sugary, overly processed versions; this recipe focuses on natural sweetness and deep, rich flavor. Get ready for a culinary adventure!
Why Make Baked Beans from Scratch?
While canned baked beans offer convenience, homemade baked beans offer an unparalleled depth of flavor and texture. You control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more satisfying meal. Plus, the aroma of these beans simmering in the oven is simply irresistible! The effort is well worth the reward.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.
- 1 pound dried navy beans: Soak these overnight for optimal texture.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor profile.
- 4 slices bacon, diced: Provides smoky richness (optional, but highly recommended!).
- 1 cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Balances the acidity.
- ¼ cup molasses: Adds depth and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: A dash of umami.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a spicy kick.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of spice.
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth: Adjust as needed for desired consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Soak the beans: Rinse the dried navy beans and soak them in plenty of cold water overnight (at least 8 hours). This step significantly reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
- Combine ingredients: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and water (or broth). Add the crispy bacon back to the pot.
- Simmer and bake: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. You can then transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) and bake for another 2-3 hours, or until the beans have reached your desired consistency and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your homemade baked beans warm, as a side dish or as part of a hearty main course. They’re delicious with grilled meats, cornbread, or even on their own!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste and adjust the amount of brown sugar and molasses to your preference.
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