Balcom'S Beans
Balcom's Beans is a hearty, flavorful baked bean dish featuring a rich blend of beans, molasses, and tangy condiments. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, its sweet and savory profile appeals to those who love comfort food with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in a 3-quart covered casserole dish.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try sautéing the diced onion and garlic before mixing them with the beans. You can substitute any of the canned beans with your favorites, such as navy or pinto beans. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the molasses or add a splash of maple syrup. This dish also works well with vegetarian recipes, making it a hearty option for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Balcom's Beans hot as a main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or cornbread. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or coleslaw for a complete meal. For a comforting dessert, consider finishing with Mom's Crushed Banana Cake to round out your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place the beans in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Balcom'S Beans contains roughly 840 calories, with 28g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and potassium (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1187mg per serving (52% 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 dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Typically, you'll want about 3 cups of cooked beans to replace the canned varieties. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegetarian, and to make it vegan, simply ensure your hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce are vegan-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies. This dish is perfect for gatherings where vegetarian recipes are appreciated.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Balcom's Beans can be prepared a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed. This can enhance the flavors, making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.
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).