Old Bean Recipe
Hearty baked navy beans with salt pork and rich seasonings, delivering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, with a sweet and savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the navy beans overnight, then discard the soaking liquid.
- Combine the soaked beans with cubed salt pork or minced ham, brown sugar or molasses, chopped onions, dry mustard, catsup, pepper, and salt in a large pot or bean pot.
- Add water to cover all ingredients.
- Place the mixture in a roaster or bean pot and bake at 300°F for 7 hours.
- Cover during the first hour of baking.
- Add water frequently during baking to keep the beans barely covered with liquid.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, cream in or stir in 3 tablespoons of butter before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked turkey instead of salt pork or ham. If you prefer a sweeter profile, opt for the molasses over brown sugar. Keep an eye on the beans during baking; adding water as needed is crucial to prevent them from drying out. For a twist, try adding spices like cumin or paprika, reminiscent of other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread and a side of coleslaw. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger spread featuring dishes like Chili For 50 People.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Old Bean Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the beans seem dry. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Bean Recipe contains roughly 290 calories, with 10g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2090mg per serving (91% 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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! Dried navy beans are perfect for this recipe. Just soak them overnight to soften before cooking. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well during baking.
What can I do if the beans are too dry after baking?
If your beans turn out too dry, simply add a bit of water or broth and stir gently to combine. Return them to the oven for a few more minutes to warm through, ensuring they soak up the added moisture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the salt pork or ham with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that umami flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based dish that still carries the essence of traditional Southern Style Beans.
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).