Sweet Northern Beans
Sweet Northern Beans offer a hearty, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness, perfect as a comforting side dish or family-friendly meal for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the Northern beans and put them in a baking dish.
- Add sugar, diced uncooked bacon, salt, pepper, seasoned salt, and diced onion.
- Use enough pepper to blacken the top of the mixture.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider substituting diced turkey bacon for a lighter option or using cooked ham if you prefer. You can also adjust the sugar to your taste, starting with 3/4 cup and adding more if desired. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. For added texture, try mixing in some sautéed onions or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Sweet Northern Beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering. They pair beautifully with Pork Steak And Rice Bake or Fried Green Cabbage for a comforting meal. For a complete spread, consider adding cornbread or a fresh garden salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm the beans in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Northern Beans contains roughly 142 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 708mg per serving (31% 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 Northern beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried Northern beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them first. Generally, 1 cup of dried beans will yield about 2.5 cups cooked. Soak them overnight, then boil until tender before following the recipe instructions.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Sweet Northern Beans vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use a vegetarian seasoning or smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor. You may also add sautéed mushrooms or a dash of liquid smoke to enhance the taste.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Sweet Northern Beans. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
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).