Proper Pub Grub: Kick-Ass Homemade Baked Beans
Forget tinned beans! This is how to make baked beans properly - smoky, sweet, & savory. Perfect on toast or with a BBQ. Proper British comfort food! Check it out! ... Soups - Stews
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some proper baked beans? you know, the kind that puts the tinned stuff to shame? this is how to make baked beans from scratch, and trust me, it's worth the effort.
Forget boring, bland beans. get ready for smoky, sweet, and downright addictive flavors.
Brief Overview
Homemade baked beans have a rich history. they're a staple in many cultures. this recipe is a twist on the classic british baked beans recipe.
It's a medium difficulty recipe. it takes about 3- 4 hours of cook time. this recipe yields around 6-8 servings.
Main Benefits
Baked beans from scratch are packed with protein and fiber. this recipe is perfect for a bbq, a full english breakfast, or a cozy night in.
What makes this recipe special? it's the perfect balance of smoky bacon, sweet molasses, and tangy mustard. you know? it's the best baked bean recipe you'll ever try.
Digging into the Ingredients
Alright, let's talk ingredients. first, you'll need dried haricot beans. don't skip the soaking! it's essential for tender beans. smoked streaky bacon adds a smoky flavour.
We're also using molasses for a touch of sweetness and dijon mustard. these flavors perfectly capture a southern baked beans experience.
Remember, you can always adjust the sweetness and smokiness to your liking!
A Touch of My Own Experience
Honestly, the first time i made homemade baked beans from dry beans , it was a bit of a disaster.
I didn't soak the beans long enough, and they were still hard after hours of cooking! lesson learned: patience is key.
But once i got it right, baked beans with bacon became a family favorite. now, every time i make it it turns out to be an easy baked beans recipe .
Mastering the Method
The secret to proper pub grub: kick-ass homemade baked beans is a low and slow cook. baking at a low temperature for hours develops a depth of flavour you just can't get any other way.
This isn't a quick fix. it requires time. also, use good quality ingredients. this will affect the overall taste.
Alright, let's chat about what you need to nail these beans. trust me, how to make baked beans isn't rocket science, but quality ingredients make all the difference.
Forget that gloopy tinned stuff. we're going full-on homemade baked beans recipe !
Proper Pub Grub: Kick-Ass Homemade Baked Beans Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
So, you fancy a crack at making your own baked beans from scratch ? Excellent! It all starts with the right gear and grub. Here’s the lowdown.
Main Ingredients: Beans, Glorious Beans!
Dried haricot beans : 500g (1.1 lbs) , rinsed. seriously, give 'em a good wash. you want nice, plump, even-sized beans for the best texture.
Quality indicators? look for beans that are all roughly the same size. avoid any that look shriveled or discolored.
Cold Water : 1.5 liters (6 cups) (for soaking). Tap water's fine, don't stress.
Baking Soda : 1 teaspoon (for soaking). This helps soften the beans, trust me.
Water to cover (for boiling). Again, tap water is your pal.
Smoked Streaky Bacon : 225g (8 oz) , diced. The streaky kind is crucial for that smoky flavour. Don't even think about using that watery, back bacon stuff.
Onion : 1 large , finely chopped. Brown or white, doesn't really matter.
Garlic : 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, but the jarred stuff will do in a pinch.
Tinned Chopped Tomatoes : 400g (14 oz) . Go for decent quality; the cheap stuff can be watery.
Molasses : 120ml (½ cup) . This is what gives the beans that classic sweet depth. If you want maple baked beans , switch to the syrup for a different, lighter taste.
Tomato Ketchup : 60ml (¼ cup) . Heinz is classic, but use whatever you have.
Apple Cider Vinegar : 30ml (2 tablespoons) . Adds a touch of tang.
Dijon Mustard : 15ml (1 tablespoon) . Not that bright yellow American stuff.
Worcestershire Sauce : 15ml (1 tablespoon) . The secret umami weapon.
Smoked Paprika : 1 teaspoon . Adds to the smokiness. You could make baked beans with bacon even smokier.
Black Pepper : ½ teaspoon . Freshly ground is always better.
Salt : To taste. Be careful; the bacon and Worcestershire sauce are already salty.
Seasoning Notes: Bang on Flavour Combinations
The bacon, molasses, mustard, and worcestershire sauce? it is a flavour party! don’t be shy with the smoked paprika . if you want that southern baked beans vibe, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
I like a tiny splash of liquid smoke, too.
If you're making vegetarian baked beans, replace the bacon with olive oil. A dash of smoked paprika is absolutely crucial.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Large bowl (for soaking). Any big bowl will do.
- Large pot or Dutch oven. This is where the magic happens. The slow cooker baked beans are a good shout.
- Baking dish (oven-safe). Needs to be able to withstand 160° C ( 325° F) .
Honestly, that's it. you don't need fancy gadgets to make amazing baked beans. now, let’s get cooking!. it is not like baking a cake, but you must set an appropriate time, it would take around 3- 4 hours, for example.
Proper Pub Grub: Kick-Ass Homemade Baked Beans Recipe
Forget the bland tins of beans. we're diving into how to make baked beans that'll knock your socks off. this is southern baked beans meets proper british comfort food.
Oh my gosh! you won't believe the flavour. i use this easy baked beans recipe all the time, especially for barbecues.
Trust me, it's worth the effort. it makes the best baked bean recipe ever.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place for Baked Beans from Scratch
First, get your ducks in a row. we're talking essential mise en place. dice your bacon into small pieces. chop your onion finely.
Mince your garlic. measure out all those lovely ingredients. this saves you time and keeps things organized. safety first! don't cut yourself, seriously.
Nobody wants blood in their maple baked beans . honestly, a little prep goes a long way.
Let's Get Cooking: The Slow Cooker Baked Beans Method
- Soak Those Beans: Pop your dried haricot beans in a bowl. Add water and baking soda. Leave them overnight. Minimum 8 hours . This is super important!
- Simmer, Don't Boil: Drain the beans. Chuck them in a pot with fresh water. Simmer for 45- 60 minutes . Check they're tender. Not mushy!
- Bacon Time: Fry diced bacon in a Dutch oven. Remove the crispy baked beans with bacon bits. Keep that glorious bacon fat.
- Sauté, Sauté: Cook onion in the bacon fat until soft. Add garlic for the last minute. Don't burn it!
- Mix It All: Add chopped tomatoes, molasses, ketchup, vinegar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, pepper, and cooked beans. Stir well.
- Bake 'Em Low and Slow: Transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with bacon. Cover and bake at 160° C ( 325° F) for 3- 4 hours .
- Taste Test: Check for seasoning. Add salt as needed. Serve hot and bask in glory.
Secret Sauce: Pro Tips for Show-Stopping Baked Beans
- Bacon Fat Magic: Seriously, don't throw away the bacon fat. It's flavour gold.
- Low and Slow Wins the Race: Don't rush the baking. It needs time to get that deep, rich flavour.
- Taste, Taste, Taste: Adjust sweetness, acidity, and smokiness to your liking.
Common mistakes? not soaking the beans properly. they'll never cook right! i learned that the hard way, believe me. you can make these a day ahead.
They actually taste better the next day! enjoy your british baked beans recipe !
Recipe Notes for Seriously Good Baked Beans
Alright, my friends, before you dive headfirst into making the best baked bean recipe ever, let's chat about some essential things.
Honestly, how to make baked beans from scratch isn't hard, but a few pointers can take them from “meh” to “omg, these are amazing!”.
Trust me, i've had my fair share of baked bean fails! i'm gonna share my homemade baked beans recipe for a guaranteed hit.
Serving Up Some Deliciousness
- Plating and Presentation Ideas: Forget fancy, think rustic! Serve your Southern baked beans straight from the baking dish, all bubbling and gorgeous. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. It is that easy, believe me!
- Complementary Sides or Beverages: These baked beans with bacon are the perfect side for a BBQ. Also, they are excellent with a Full English breakfast. A chilled pint of ale or a sweet tea goes down great with them.
Storing Like a Pro: Homemade Baked Beans Recipe
- Refrigeration Guidelines: Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the beans cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days . This is a great recipe for meal prep!
- Freezing Options: Absolutely! These easy baked beans recipe freezes beautifully. Portion them out into freezer-safe containers or bags. They'll keep for up to 3 months .
- Reheating Instructions: For the fridge, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts. For frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the reheating instructions for the fridge.
Adapt and Conquer: Variations on Baked Beans From Scratch
- Dietary Adaptations: Want a veggie version? Simple! Skip the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil to sauté your onion. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. You can also adapt them to slow cooker baked beans.
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, swap out some of the ketchup for a splash of apple cider for a British baked beans recipe. During the summer, a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add some colour. This recipe works all year round!
Nutrition Nuggets: The Real Deal
Baked beans, made from dry beans, are an awesome source of fiber and protein. a serving clocks in around 350-400 calories , with roughly 20-25g of protein and 10-12g of fiber .
Maple baked beans are another option. keep in mind that there is some sugar in this recipe due to the molasses and ketchup.
As always, moderation is key!
Honestly, how to make baked beans isn't rocket science. it's more like a hug in a bowl, proper comfort food.
So, go on, give it a go. with these tips, your baked beans will be the star of the show!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really necessary to soak the beans overnight when learning how to make baked beans?
Absolutely! Soaking the beans overnight (or for at least 8 hours) is crucial. It helps soften them, reduces cooking time, and makes them easier to digest – meaning less chance of any, ahem, unpleasant after-effects. Think of it as a spa day for your beans!
Can I make these baked beans vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! To make vegetarian baked beans, simply omit the bacon and use olive oil or another vegetable oil in its place. For a vegan version, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly (some contain anchovies) or substitute with soy sauce or mushroom ketchup for umami.
How long do homemade baked beans last, and how should I store them?
Homemade baked beans will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure they've cooled down completely before refrigerating. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; portion them out first for easy thawing, ready for a quick and easy meal!
What if my baked beans are too watery after baking?
If your baked beans are a bit too watery after baking, simply remove the lid (or foil) for the last 30-60 minutes of cooking time. This allows the excess liquid to evaporate and the sauce to thicken up nicely. You can also simmer them on the stovetop for a bit if you're short on time, keeping an eye so they don't burn!
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans to make baked beans?
While it's not quite the same experience, you can use canned beans in a pinch. Reduce the baking time significantly (1-1.5 hours should do it), and be mindful of the salt content, as canned beans are often pre-salted. Consider it the "ready steady cook" version of how to make baked beans!
I don't have molasses. What's a good substitute when considering how to make baked beans?
If you're missing molasses, dark brown sugar or maple syrup are both excellent substitutes. Dark brown sugar will provide a similar depth of flavor, while maple syrup will add a slightly sweeter, more delicate taste. Experiment a little and see which you prefer – after all, even Delia Smith had to start somewhere!
