Delicious Western-Style Baked Beans Recipe

5 stars
4.51 (17)
Delicious Western-Style Baked Beans Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
120 mins
Total Time:
140mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on January 26, 2024

Indulge in the rich flavors of Western-Style Baked Beans with this easy and delicious recipe. Slow-cooked to perfection, these beans combine smoky bacon, tender beans, and a tangy sauce for a hearty and comforting dish. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dry navy beans
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 pound bacon, diced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Rinse the navy beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with water and let soak overnight. Drain and rinse the beans before proceeding.
  2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  5. In a bowl, mix together the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Return the cooked bacon to the pot with the onion and garlic. Add the drained navy beans and the sauce mixture. Stir until well combined.
  7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the beans cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course with cornbread.

Interesting Facts

  • Baked beans are a traditional American dish dating back to the Native Americans, who slow-cooked beans with animal fat and maple syrup.
  • This recipe uses navy beans, which are small white beans that become soft and creamy when cooked.
  • The addition of bacon adds a smoky flavor and richness to the dish.
  • Molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.