Get ready to transform ordinary beans into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Our Slow Cooked Baked Beans recipe is the ultimate comfort food that promises to elevate your dining experience with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Imagine tender, rich beans swimming in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy sauce that will transport you straight to a classic American barbecue – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 4 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dried navy beans, removing any stones or damaged beans. Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water, allowing them to soak overnight for at least 8 hours.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
- Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the beans.
- In a slow cooker, combine the soaked beans, diced onion, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and water. Stir ingredients to ensure they are well mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the flavors will develop and concentrate during the long cooking process.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 7-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Occasionally stir the beans during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Add a small amount of hot water if the mixture appears too dry.
- Once beans are soft and sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Let the beans rest for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to further thicken and flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Soaking is crucial: Always soak your dried beans overnight to ensure even cooking and reduce cooking time.
- Low and slow is the secret: Use the slow cooker on low heat to allow flavors to develop and beans to become incredibly tender.
- Don't skip the seasoning: Layer your flavors by adding brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard, which create a complex and delicious sauce.
- Watch the liquid: Occasionally check the moisture level and add hot water if the beans look too dry to prevent burning.
- Patience pays off: Let the beans rest after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld together.
- Customize your beans: Feel free to add bacon, ham, or extra spices like smoked paprika for a personal touch.
- Store and reheat: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a large batch and enjoy leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
