Colorado Beans
Colorado Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring bacon, onions, and a sweet-savory blend of brown sugar and vinegar, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until done, then drain and set aside.
- Cook sliced onions in bacon grease until limp, covering the skillet to cook slowly.
- Add brown sugar and vinegar to the onions and mix well.
- Drain all beans except the pork and beans.
- Add the drained beans to the onions along with crumbled bacon.
- Transfer to a 2-quart casserole or bean pot and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the beans. If you're out of bacon, turkey bacon or smoked sausage can provide a similar taste. For a sweeter profile, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting the vinegar for acidity to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Colorado Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or barbecued dishes. They pair beautifully with Spicy Barbecue Ribs or can be served as a main dish with a side salad. For a complete meal, consider adding cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. These beans also freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Colorado Beans contains roughly 1039 calories, with 14g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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. Make sure to use about 1 1/2 cups of cooked beans for each can called for in the recipe. This requires additional time but can enhance the flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for the bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using smoked paprika or a combination of olive oil and liquid smoke to achieve a similar flavor profile. For a meaty alternative, turkey bacon or pancetta can work well in place of regular bacon.
How can I spice up the dish?
For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the bean mixture. You can also incorporate some barbecue sauce or hot sauce to elevate the flavor, making it a great companion to dishes like Meatballs And Potatoes.
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).