Sweet 'N' Sassy Beans
Sweet 'N' Sassy Beans combine smoky, sweet flavors with hearty ingredients, perfect for comforting gatherings or weeknight dinners that appeal to BBQ lovers and flavor enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Start the grill, allowing it to reach a temperature of 250 degrees, or preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the sweet bar, store-bought pork, liquid smoke, molasses, chopped onion, pork shoulder, seasoning mix, and sausage.
- Cook the mixture on low heat for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mix. If you can't find a sweet bar, use a sweet variety of beans instead. You can also substitute the store-bought pork with leftover pulled pork or even tempeh for a vegetarian option. This dish is inspired by traditional American recipes, making it versatile for various palates.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet 'N' Sassy Beans alongside Country Style Cornbread for a comforting meal. They also pair well with Hot Baked Stuffed Potatoes or as a filling side for a barbecue feast. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave in short increments, stirring frequently until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet 'N' Sassy Beans contains roughly 212 calories, with 12g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 969mg per serving (42% 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 beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the mix. This will take additional time, so plan accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the pork shoulder and sausage links with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers, or use plant-based sausages. Adjust the liquid smoke to maintain that smoky flavor in your vegetarian version.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the beans?
To modify the sweetness, simply reduce the amount of molasses or add more savory ingredients like onions and spices. Tasting as you go will help you find the perfect balance for your palate.
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).