Grandma Browns baked beans are a classic American comfort food. Originating in the early 20th century, this dish has been a staple of family dinners and potlucks since its inception. Grandma Brown’s beans are made with navy beans, ham or bacon, onion, dark brown sugar, bay leaf, and salt.
The result is a flavorful and hearty dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, if you’re looking for an easy-to-make and delicious dish, look no further than Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans.
In this article, we will discuss the history of the dish, how to make it, and what to serve it with. We will also provide nutrition information and answer some frequently asked questions about Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans.
What is Grandma browns baked beans?
Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans are a classic comfort food dish made with navy beans, ham or bacon, onion, dark brown sugar, bay leaf, and salt. The dish is cooked in the oven for two hours until it is full of flavor and quite hearty. The sweetness from the dark brown sugar pairs wonderfully with the smokiness of the ham or bacon, making this a well-rounded and delicious dish.
What does it taste like?
Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans have a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors. The navy beans are slightly sweet and creamy, while the bacon and brown sugar give it a smoky-sweet flavor. The onions add a hint of sharpness, while the bay leaf adds an herbal note.
How did I first get introduced to the Grandma browns baked beans?
Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans were introduced to me by my grandmother when we lived in Missouri. She made the dish for our family dinners often and it quickly became one of my favorite dishes growing up. The creamy texture of the beans paired with the sweetness of the brown sugar and the saltiness of the bacon make it an unforgettable flavor.
How to make Grandma browns baked beans?
Making Grandma browns baked beans is a simple and straightforward process.
You can also checkout the following Lunch Recipe :
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- Water
- 1 pound Navy beans
- 3 ounces ham or 3 ounces cooked bacon
- ¼ cup Dark brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1
Start by prepping the beans, add the navy beans to a pot, and cover them with water. Add baking soda and let it rest for at least 2 hours.
Step 2
After soaking, cook the beans in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until they are soft. Drain the beans and discard the water.
Step 3
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a bowl, mix together the ham or bacon, dark brown sugar, chopped onion, bay leaf, and salt.
Step 4
Add the mixture to the pot with cooked beans and stir to combine. Cover the pot and bake for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Once done, serve hot.
Tips
• You can also add other seasonings like garlic or herbs to make it more flavorful.
• If you want a spicier version, add some diced jalapenos or other peppers.
• To make a vegetarian version, swap out the ham or bacon for mushrooms or your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- Water
- 1 pound Navy beans
- 3 ounces ham or 3 ounces cooked bacon
- ¼ cup Dark brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Start by prepping the beans, add the navy beans to a pot, and cover them with water. Add baking soda and let it rest for at least 2 hours.
- After soaking, cook the beans in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until they are soft. Drain the beans and discard the water.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In a bowl, mix together the ham or bacon, dark brown sugar, chopped onion, bay leaf, and salt.
- Add the mixture to the pot with cooked beans and stir to combine. Cover the pot and bake for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Once done, serve hot.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1/2 cup of cooked beans
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 9g
What to serve with Grandma browns baked beans?
Grandma brown’s baked beans can be served as a main dish or side dish. They pair great with grilled meats like hamburgers, steak, and ribs. You can also serve them with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, and greens.
How to store leftover Grandma browns baked beans?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat when ready to serve. Also, you can freeze the beans in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can enjoy Grandma browns baked beans as long as they have been cooked properly. However, it is always best to consult with a doctor or dietitian before consuming any foods during pregnancy.
FAQs
Do the beans need to be cooked before baking?
Yes, the beans should be cooked prior to baking. This will ensure that they are properly cooked and not undercooked or raw.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can use other types of beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, you can make this vegan by swapping out the ham or bacon for mushrooms or other vegetables.
What type of beans are used for Grandma browns baked beans?
Navy beans are typically used for this recipe.
Wrapping Up
Grandma browns baked beans is a classic, comfort food that can be enjoyed any day of the week. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side dish, it’s sure to be a hit.
You can find the bean can at any local grocery store, and it’s easy to customize this recipe according to your preference. Plus, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for later use. Please share this recipe with your friends and family and let us know how it turns out. Thank you.
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Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more