Baked Bean Too
A hearty baked bean dish with sweet molasses, savory ham, and caramelized onions, perfect for family gatherings or comforting winter meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse dried beans and soak overnight in water.
- Drain the soaked beans.
- Place beans in a bean pot or deep baking dish.
- Add molasses, grated or finely chopped onions, brown sugar, dry mustard, and diced ham or bacon to the beans.
- Bake slowly at 225°F (107°C) for 4 hours until the beans are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce. If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with maple syrup or honey, but the taste will differ slightly. Using a mix of beans, such as navy and pinto, can add variety. Ensure the beans are well-soaked to achieve tenderness during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked beans warm as a hearty side dish with grilled meats or barbecued chicken. They pair wonderfully with cornbread (Zella Ives' Recipe) to soak up the rich sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding coleslaw or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Bean Too contains roughly 488 calories, with 1g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans for this recipe. Rinse and drain them before adding to the pot. However, you may need to reduce the baking time since the beans are already cooked. Aim for about 1-2 hours of baking to meld the flavors.
What type of beans work best for baked beans?
Navy beans are traditional, but pinto or great northern beans also work well. Each type provides a unique texture and flavor. Feel free to mix them for a more complex dish. Just ensure they are soaked and cooked properly for the best results.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham or bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor. You can also enhance the dish with diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).