Mother Ethel Lockerbie'S Baked Beans
A hearty, savory baked beans dish with salt pork and molasses, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash beans thoroughly.
- Mix all ingredients except water and meat.
- Add water and meat to the mixture.
- Put in crock-pot on low heat at 9:00, 10:00, or 11:00 p.m. and cook all night.
- Before serving, add 3 to 4 tablespoons of tomato catsup or chili sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider soaking the dried beans overnight before cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the salt pork, ham, or bacon with smoked tofu or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can also give a nice kick. For variations, try incorporating diced onions or bell peppers into the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your baked beans alongside cornbread for a classic pairing, or use them as a hearty side dish for grilled meats. They complement barbecue dishes and are perfect for potlucks. For a fun twist, serve them over Piggy Back Crackers as a unique appetizer. A fresh garden salad can also balance the richness of the beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother Ethel Lockerbie'S Baked Beans contains roughly 241 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 922mg per serving (40% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned beans for convenience. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the mixture. Reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low in the crock-pot, as the beans are already cooked.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the baked beans?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar and molasses to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, start with half the sugar and molasses, then taste and adjust before cooking.
What can I serve with baked beans?
Baked beans pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with grilled meats, such as sausages or ribs, or alongside comfort foods like Cheesy Baked Potatoes. They also make a great side for outdoor barbecues and picnics.
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).