Are you craving a warm, comforting dish that’s hearty and simple? Homemade baked beans can be enjoyed by everyone, and making them without bacon doesn’t compromise on flavor. This version is just as savory and delicious, perfect for vegetarians and those who prefer a plant-based option.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- Chili powder for a little kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Beans
Soak the dried beans overnight, or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse them after soaking.
Cook the Beans
Add the soaked beans to a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beans are tender but not mushy.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate pan, heat some olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Combine the Beans and Sauce
Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the cooked beans. Stir in molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer for Flavor
Allow the beans to simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken the sauce and allow the flavors to meld.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili powder or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm on the stove with a splash of water to reach the desired consistency.
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Yes, you can absolutely use canned beans instead of dried beans when making homemade baked beans. In fact, using canned beans can save you time and effort, especially if you’re in a rush.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cooking Time: Canned beans are already cooked, so you don’t need to simmer them for hours. Just combine them with your sauce ingredients and simmer to meld the flavors.
- Flavor and Texture: Dried beans tend to have a firmer texture and absorb more flavors during cooking. Canned beans might be softer, but you can still achieve a great taste by simmering them with seasonings.
How to Use Canned Beans in Your Recipe
- Drain and Rinse: Drain and rinse canned beans to remove any excess sodium and preservatives.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Since the beans are already cooked, you’ll only need to simmer them for about 15-20 minutes, just enough to blend the flavors with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your beans and adjust the seasoning since canned beans may already contain salt.
Using canned beans is an excellent shortcut without compromising too much on flavor or texture, and it can make your baked beans recipe even easier to prepare.
For the complete recipe and step-by-step guide to making these delicious baked beans, visit this link: The Ultimate Baked Beans Recipe Guide.