Baked Beans With Green Pepper And Carrots
Baked Beans With Green Pepper And Carrots is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender navy beans combined with sweet brown sugar, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a comforting, savory taste with a hint of sweetness and smoky undertones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the navy beans, cover with water, and cook until soft.
- Drain the beans, not too dry.
- Add salt and bacon drippings to the cooked beans.
- Mix the beans, brown sugar, chopped onions, chopped green peppers, and grated carrots in a baking dish.
- Add the tomato catsup to the mixture.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for one hour or until as dry as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of mustard to the bean mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute bacon drippings with olive oil or vegan butter. You can also use pinto beans or black beans in place of navy beans for a different taste. Experiment with spices like paprika or chili powder for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Baked beans pair wonderfully with cornbread or grilled meats, making them a perfect side for summer barbecues. Consider serving alongside coleslaw or potato salad for a classic picnic spread. They also complement dishes like Sweet Sour Green Beans or Escalloped Potatoes With Ham beautifully, creating a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beans With Green Pepper And Carrots contains roughly 519 calories, with 13g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (129% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 899mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
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 navy beans instead of cooked ones?
Yes, if you're short on time, canned navy beans can be used. Just remember to rinse and drain them before adding to the recipe to reduce sodium content. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as they’ll need less time in the oven.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture. You can also serve the baked beans with a bottle of hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize their spice level.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baked beans a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop before serving. This can enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
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).