Baked beans are a classic dish with roots in Native American cuisine and have become a beloved staple in various cultures, particularly in the UK and the US. They are often enjoyed at barbecues, as part of a hearty breakfast, or simply as a comforting meal on their own. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the creamy texture of the beans, makes this dish a popular choice for many.
Servings: Serves 6 people
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) of navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat the Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil.
3. Sauté the onion in the Dutch oven until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the navy beans, kidney beans, and tomato sauce using a wooden spoon.
6. Add the molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
9. Remove from the oven and stir in the apple cider vinegar.
10. Let the baked beans cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the beans and tomato sauce do not contain any animal products.
- Add some cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty variation.
- Adjust the sweetness level by varying the amount of molasses and brown sugar according to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with crusty bread or as a side to grilled meats. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Estimated Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes