Hilda Taylor'S Old Fashioned Beans
Hilda Taylor's Old Fashioned Beans are hearty, smoky, and comforting, perfect for a cozy meal. Rich flavors from bacon and slow-cooked beans suit family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and carefully separate the pink pinto beans.
- Soak the beans overnight or for at least 5 to 6 hours.
- Drain off the soaking water.
- Cover the beans with clean water and cook slowly for 3 to 4 hours in a covered 3-quart pot.
- Add bacon or salt pork in the last hour of cooking.
- Feel free to add other spices, onions, carrots, or flavorings to suit your taste.
- Serve the beans with cornbread or cheese biscuits.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using homemade stock instead of water for cooking the beans. You can also experiment with seasonings by adding garlic or smoked paprika. If you want a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add a touch of liquid smoke for depth. Soaking the beans is crucial, as it reduces cooking time and enhances digestibility.
Serving Suggestions
These old-fashioned beans are delicious served alongside cornbread or cheese biscuits, making for a comforting meal. You can also pair them with a fresh salad, like Spinach Bacon Salad, to add a refreshing crunch. For a complete dinner, consider serving them with Juicy Ham Loaf or any hearty pork recipes for a satisfying combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze cooked beans for up to 3 months, making them a convenient addition to future meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hilda Taylor'S Old Fashioned Beans contains roughly 78 calories, with 4g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1957mg per serving (85% 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?
Absolutely! Dried beans are ideal for this recipe and will yield a richer flavor. Just remember to soak them overnight or for at least 5 to 6 hours to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a meat alternative, you can use smoked turkey or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian option. Adding a few drops of liquid smoke can mimic the flavor of bacon and enhance the beans.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and creamy but not mushy. You can test them by tasting a few beans; they should be soft and flavorful. If they still have a bite, continue cooking and check every 15 minutes.
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).