June'S Kidney Beans(Abington Grange Supper)
June's Kidney Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender kidney beans cooked with salt pork, molasses, and spices. Its rich sweetness and savory notes make it ideal for comforting family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the dried kidney beans overnight.
- Place the salt pork in the bottom of a bean pot.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot with all other ingredients.
- Cover with hot water.
- Bake at 325°F for 5 or 6 hours.
- Add more water as needed during baking.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F for the last hour of baking.
- Add more molasses if desired.
- Test for doneness with a fork; beans should be tender but not mushy.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using a smoked ham hock instead of salt pork for a different taste profile. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the pork and add a dash of liquid smoke. Remember to soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar or molasses based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve June's Kidney Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main course with cornbread. They pair wonderfully with a fresh Cherry Tomato Salad for a balanced meal. For an additional touch, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover June's Kidney Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of June'S Kidney Beans(Abington Grange Supper) contains roughly 316 calories, with 22g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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 kidney beans instead of dried?
While you can use canned kidney beans, the cooking time will be significantly reduced. Drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot with the other ingredients, adjusting the baking time to about 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
How do I know when the beans are done?
Check for doneness by piercing a bean with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy. If they are still firm, continue to bake, checking every 30 minutes until they reach the desired texture.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding diced onions, bell peppers, or even spices like cumin or chili powder for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the cooking time slightly.
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).