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Savory Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans recipe, a savory side dish that will elevate any meal to new heights. Bursting with the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes, these baked beans are sure to become a staple at your table for gatherings, barbecues, or cozy family dinners.
History
Baked beans have a long history, dating back to Native American tribes who first cultivated beans and cooked them with sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. The addition of bacon to baked beans is a more recent innovation, adding a smoky depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the beans and brown sugar. Our recipe combines these timeless elements to create a dish that pays homage to tradition while offering a modern twist.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cans (15 ounces each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cooking the Bacon and Onion
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Preparing the Baked Beans Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, drained navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Baking the Beans
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and the sauce has thickened.
Serving
- Let Cool: Allow the baked beans to cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked beans with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats or as a hearty main course.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and molasses to suit your taste preferences. For a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of brown sugar.
- Make Ahead: These baked beans can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving, making them a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.
- Freeze for Later: Leftover baked beans can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Conclusion:
Elevate your side dish game with our Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans recipe, a flavorful and satisfying addition to any meal. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. So, fire up the oven and get ready to savor every delicious bite of these irresistible baked beans.
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