Hot Bean Dish In Tomato Sauce
A hearty hot bean dish simmered in rich tomato sauce, featuring smoky bacon and sweet brown sugar, perfect for comforting meals and satisfying a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the kidney beans and butter beans.
- In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- Add garlic and salt to the bacon drippings and sauté until fragrant.
- Add beans, water, brown sugar, and chopped bacon to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture until heated through and flavors meld, about 30-45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked bacon for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar taste. Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference. You can also try adding chopped bell peppers or onions for extra veggies. This dish pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot bean dish over rice or alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. It can also be a hearty side dish to grilled meats or BBQ. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad, such as German Hot Green Bean Salad, to balance the richness of the beans and bacon.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place the dish in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Bean Dish In Tomato Sauce contains roughly 21 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% 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 beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, using canned beans is a great time-saver! Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the pot. Since canned beans are already cooked, reduce the simmering time to about 15-20 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a non-pork option, turkey bacon works well as a substitute. For a vegetarian version, try using tempeh or mushrooms sautéed in olive oil for a similar umami flavor. You can also add a dash of liquid smoke for a smoky taste without the meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. For a more complex spice, you can also add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the mixture while it simmers. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a kick!
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).