Favorite Barbecue Beans
Sweet and smoky barbecue beans featuring tender ham hocks, hearty pinto beans, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and pick over the pinto beans.
- Soak the beans overnight in cold soda water with 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
- Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
- Cover the soaked beans with water, add ham hocks, and simmer gently for 2 hours until the beans are tender and flavorful.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Favorite Barbecue Beans, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or a few dashes of hot sauce. If you don't have bacon drippings, olive oil or butter can be substituted. Consider using canned beans for a quicker version; just reduce the cooking time. For more flavor, sauté the garlic and onion before adding them to the beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Favorite Barbecue Beans as a hearty side dish at summer barbecues or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with grilled meats and cornbread, making them a perfect complement to dishes like Baked Pork Tenderloin. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or coleslaw on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecue beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. They can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir well to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Barbecue Beans contains roughly 1166 calories, with 51g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 beans other than pinto for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with other varieties like kidney beans or black beans, but the cooking time may vary slightly. Just ensure the beans are fully cooked and tender before serving.
How spicy are these barbecue beans?
The spice level of the beans can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the chili powder. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and gradually add until you reach your desired heat level.
Can I make these beans in advance?
Absolutely! These beans can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving. Making them in advance allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
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).