Imagine a side dish that transforms ordinary kidney beans into a flavor explosion that'll have everyone at your barbecue begging for seconds! Julie D's BBQ Beans are not just a recipe; they're a culinary adventure that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one irresistible dish. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, these beans are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining the kidney beans thoroughly and finely chopping the onion and bell pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they become soft and slightly translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the drained kidney beans to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in the BBQ sauce, ensuring the beans and vegetables are evenly coated. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the mixture and stir thoroughly to incorporate.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Allow the mixture to cook for approximately 50-60 minutes, which will help the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water. If it's too thin, continue simmering to reduce.
- Remove from heat and let the beans rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve hot as a side dish or accompaniment to grilled meats, barbecue, or as part of a larger meal.
Tips
- Drain the kidney beans thoroughly to prevent watery sauce and ensure maximum flavor absorption.
- Use a high-quality BBQ sauce that complements your taste preferences – this can make or break the dish.
- Sauté the onions and bell peppers until they're just soft to develop a deeper, more caramelized flavor.
- Stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent beans from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Let the beans rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
- These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance for meal prep or potlucks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 102kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
