Norwegian Brown Beans
A hearty Norwegian-inspired baked bean dish featuring savory meatballs, sweet pineapple, and flavorful sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, and salt.
- Roll the meat mixture into small balls.
- Fry the meatballs in oil until browned.
- Add catsup, water, brown sugar, vinegar, and dry mustard to the meatballs.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large casserole dish, combine both types of beans and pineapple.
- Add the cooked meatballs and 1/2 cup of pineapple to the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey instead of beef, and try adding some minced garlic to the meat mixture. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the brown sugar slightly. You can substitute the kidney beans with black beans for a different texture. Keep an eye on the meatballs while frying to ensure they don't dry out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a fulfilling meal. A simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brown beans and meatballs. This dish pairs beautifully with Polish Sausage-Kraut for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Brown Beans contains roughly 1233 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1409mg per serving (61% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of beans according to your preference. Great alternatives include black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a unique twist. Just ensure that the total amount of beans remains the same to maintain the dish's consistency.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like lentils or a meat substitute. Also, use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Ensure that the beans used are vegetarian-friendly.
What can I serve with Norwegian Brown Beans?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also add a nice finishing touch.
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).