Vegetarian Calico Beans
A hearty vegetarian casserole featuring baked beans in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into a pot and cover with foil.
- Bake at 300°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, sauté the diced onion before adding it to the pot. You can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a different sweetness, or use a sugar alternative if you're looking for lower calories. Feel free to experiment with different beans, such as kidney or black beans, to create a unique twist. This recipe can easily be adapted into a vegan recipe by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
These Vegetarian Calico Beans make a hearty side dish at potlucks and barbecues. They pair beautifully with grilled vegetables or a fresh corn salad (very colorful!) for a balanced meal. Consider serving with crusty bread for sopping up the sauce, or alongside other American recipes like a classic coleslaw for a picnic spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If the beans seem dry, add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetarian Calico Beans contains roughly 268 calories, with 6g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 512mg per serving (22% 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?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for baked small pea beans, you can substitute with other varieties like kidney beans, pinto beans, or even black beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you're using dried beans to ensure they are tender.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these Vegetarian Calico Beans are great for meal prep! They store well and the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also incorporate some diced bell peppers or chipotle sauce for a smoky kick. Adjust the spices according to your heat preference for a customized flavor.
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).