Homemade baked beans recipe – Hungarian Chef

Before diving into the delicious world of homemade baked beans, let’s talk about what you can serve them with. These hearty beans are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Picture a barbecue spread featuring grilled sausages, juicy burgers, or smoky ribs. 

Now, throw in some coleslaw, garlic bread, or even a corn salad. Each addition brings its own flair, enhancing the meal. Homemade baked beans can take center stage or be the perfect sidekick to any main dish.

Growing up, baked beans were a staple in my home. They filled our kitchen with warmth and richness. The sweet and savory aroma of slowly cooked beans was always a sign that something special was on the way. 

Whenever I made them, I knew I was in for a treat. Today, I want to share my journey with homemade baked beans, an easy dish that warms the soul and pleases every palate.

They’re not just any beans; they’re a blend of comfort and creativity — a dish you can customize and make your own. 

Close your eyes, and imagine biting into those tender beans, coated in a rich sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. So, what are homemade baked beans exactly?

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What is Homemade Baked Beans?

Homemade baked beans are a simple yet utterly satisfying dish made primarily from navy beans. With a savory, sweet, and slight tang from various ingredients, these beans are typically slow-cooked to allow flavors to meld beautifully. 

They offer a delightful blend of textures, with creamy beans nestled in a glaze of tomato, sugar, and spices.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for homemade baked beans stands out for several reasons. Let’s break it down:

• Homemade Is Always Better: When you make baked beans from scratch, you control the ingredients. You can adjust sweetness, spice levels, and flavor to suit your personal taste preferences. Plus, there’s something so gratifying about creating a dish from raw ingredients.
  
• Rich Underlying Flavors: Using bacon and a variety of sauces creates a depth of flavor. The combination of brown sugar, ketchup, and maple syrup contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the bacon. This layered approach ensures a dish that is anything but one-dimensional.
  
• Nutritious and Filling: Beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber. Combining them with wholesome ingredients transforms this dish into a nutritious option that keeps you satisfied.
  
• Simple Steps with Big Rewards: One of the best parts? This dish is not complicated. A few steps, some patience, and you’ll have an abundance of baked beans perfect for any gathering.
  

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your homemade baked beans:

• 1 pound dry navy beans
• 1 1/2 cups reserved cooking liquid from beans
• 8 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces
• 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 cup tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How To Make This Homemade Baked Beans

Step 1: Prepare Your Beans

Start by sorting through the dry navy beans. Rinse them under cool water and remove any debris. Once cleaned, soak the beans in water overnight. This step helps them cook evenly and shortens cooking time.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

After soaking, drain the beans and place them in a large pot. Cover them with fresh water — about an inch above the beans. 

Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until they’re tender. Once cooked, reserve 1 1/2 cups of this cooking liquid.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Onions

In another large pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat. Add the chopped onion to the same pan. Sauté until they become soft and translucent.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients Together

In your large pot of beans, carefully combine the cooked beans, bacon, sautéed onions, brown sugar, ketchup, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, baking soda, and black pepper. Stir everything together until combined.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Cover the pot and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer you bake, the deeper the flavors become.

Step 6: Adjust the Consistency

Check your beans about halfway through cooking. If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit of reserved cooking liquid. If it appears too soupy, leave it uncovered for the remaining cooking time.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened, take them out of the oven. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving. 

You can garnish them with fresh herbs or serve alongside your favorite dishes.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some handy tips to ensure your baked beans turn out perfectly:

• Soaking Is Key: Don’t skip the overnight soak. It helps your beans cook evenly and reduces cooking time.
  
• Use Quality Bacon: The type of bacon can greatly influence the flavor. Choose a high-quality, thick-cut bacon for better taste.
  
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for an extra flavor boost.
  
• Adjust Sweetness to Your Liking: Not a fan of overly sweet beans? Cut back on the brown sugar and maple syrup to match your preference.
  
• Don’t Rush the Baking: Allowing the beans to bake longer helps deepen the flavors. Trust the process!
  

Nutrition Information

Homemade baked beans recipe nutrition facts

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

If you’ve made a big batch of baked beans, you might end up with leftovers. Here’s how to store them correctly:

1. Cool Down: Allow the beans to reach room temperature before storing them.
   
2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer them into airtight containers for the best preservation.
   
3. Refrigerate: Store the beans in the refrigerator where they can last for about 3-5 days.
   
4. Freezing is an Option: If you want to keep them longer, homemade baked beans can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just portion them out and remember to label the containers!
   

What Sides Would Complement Homemade Baked Beans?

When planning a meal with baked beans, consider these complementary sides:

• Coleslaw: This crunchy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the beans. The creamy dressing balances the sweet and savory notes, making them a perfect pair.
  
• Cornbread: Sweet, moist cornbread complements the earthiness of the beans. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
  
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled veggies bring a burst of color and flavor. The char adds depth, making this a fabulous addition to your plate.
  

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

You might not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some viable alternatives:

• Beans: If navy beans are unavailable, try using pinto, great northern, or black beans—the texture may vary, but the flavor will still be delightful.
  
• Bacon: For a vegetarian option, use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that smoky flavor. Alternatively, try using tempeh or mushrooms sautéed in olive oil.
  
• Ketchup: If you’re out of ketchup, barbecue sauce can offer a similar sweet and tangy flavor profile. You could also blend canned tomatoes with a bit of sugar and vinegar.
  
• Maple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be swapped for maple syrup. This substitution still delivers that necessary sweetness.
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Making homemade baked beans is about more than just food; it’s about tradition, comfort, and creativity. 

This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that warms your spirit. Whether served at a picnic or as a cozy dinner option, they are guaranteed to impress. 

With this guide, you now have all the tools to create a delicious batch of your own. So roll up those sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let the oven work its magic! Perfect baked beans await.

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