Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mouthwatering Special Baked Beans! This isn't just another side dish – it's a flavor-packed journey that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender navy beans slow-cooked to perfection, infused with a rich, sweet, and savory sauce that combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the deep, molasses-like sweetness that makes classic baked beans an American favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 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 molasses
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 pound bacon, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the dried navy beans thoroughly and remove any stones or damaged beans.
- Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Allow the beans to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- Dice the onion and chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Add the diced onion and chopped bacon to the beans in the slow cooker.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients until well blended.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beans, onions, and bacon in the slow cooker. Stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Add enough water to cover the beans by about 1 inch.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the beans for tenderness and adjust seasoning if needed during the last hour of cooking.
- Once beans are soft and sauce has thickened, turn off the slow cooker and let the beans rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Soaking is Crucial: Always soak your dried beans overnight to ensure even cooking and improve digestibility. This step helps reduce cooking time and makes the beans more tender.
- Bacon Matters: Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor. Thick-cut bacon works wonderfully and adds a rich, smoky dimension to the dish.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. The slow cooker works its magic by breaking down the beans and melding flavors over several hours.
- Liquid Level is Key: Always ensure the beans are covered by about an inch of water. Add more if needed during cooking to prevent drying out.
- Seasoning Hack: Taste and adjust the seasoning during the last hour of cooking. Sometimes a little extra brown sugar or mustard can elevate the entire dish.
- Resting Time: Let the beans rest for 15 minutes after cooking. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle, making them even more delicious.Pro Tip: These baked beans are not just a side dish – they're perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a hearty main course that'll satisfy even the hungriest crowds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
