Baked Beans à la Crockpot

Baked Beans à la Crockpot Recipe - Vegetarian Delight

Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 10-12 hours | Servings: 6-8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Baked Beans à la Crockpot is a classic, hearty dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to prepare baked beans, utilizing the convenience of a crockpot. Perfect for busy days, this dish requires minimal preparation and yields a comforting, flavorful meal that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

History

The origins of baked beans can be traced back to Native Americans, who cooked beans with bear fat and maple syrup. The dish was later adapted by European settlers, particularly in New England, where molasses was used as a sweetener. The crockpot version of baked beans is a more modern adaptation, allowing for slow cooking that enhances the flavors and textures of the beans.

Ingredients

3 cups beans (1.5 lb or 680 g) (pea, navy)
1 medium onion, chopped
0.5 cup catsup
0.25 cup brown sugar (0.5 cup if you prefer it very sweet)
1 cup water
2 tbsp dry mustard
2 tbsp molasses
1 tbsp salt
0.5 tsp ginger
0.5 cup tomato juice (if made in oven)

How to prepare

Wash and sort the beans.
Cover the beans with water and bring it to a boil.
Boil the beans for 2 minutes and then remove from heat.
Let the beans soak for 2 hours.
Bring the beans to a boil again and then simmer for about an hour or until they are cooked, but not soft or mushy.
Drain the beans.
Put the beans in the crockpot.
Mix the rest of the ingredients together and stir them into the beans.
Turn on the crockpot to low heat and cook for 10 - 12 hours or add 0.5 cup of tomato juice.
Cover the crockpot tightly and cook it in a 200°F (93°C) oven overnight.

Variations

For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce. For a smokier flavor, include a piece of smoked meat or use smoked paprika. Vegetarians can add a meat substitute or extra vegetables like bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, always soak the beans as directed to soften them and reduce cooking time. Adding a bit of baking soda to the soaking water can help make the beans more digestible. For a richer flavor, consider adding a piece of smoked meat, such as bacon or ham, to the crockpot. To prevent the beans from becoming too mushy, avoid stirring them too frequently during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Beans à la Crockpot can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and salads. For a traditional touch, serve with cornbread or over a slice of toasted whole-grain bread.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooking technique used in this recipe allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. For those who prefer a thicker sauce, consider removing the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Ingredient Substitutions

If brown sugar is not available, maple syrup or honey can be used as a sweetener. Apple cider vinegar can replace molasses for a tangier flavor. For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium catsup and reduce the added salt.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving. The flavors often improve with time, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the baked beans in a rustic bowl or crock, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. For individual servings, consider using small mason jars for a charming presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Baked Beans à la Crockpot pairs well with a variety of dishes, including barbecue ribs, grilled chicken, and vegetable kebabs. For a beverage pairing, consider a light beer or a crisp white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Beans à la Crockpot contains approximately 200-300 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option that can fit into various dietary needs. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is relatively high in carbohydrates, with the beans serving as the primary source. Beans are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy. The added brown sugar and molasses also contribute simple carbohydrates, increasing the overall carb content.

Fats

The Baked Beans à la Crockpot recipe is low in fats, making it a heart-healthy option. The minimal fat content primarily comes from the ingredients used in small quantities, such as the catsup and any added meat for flavoring.

Proteins

Beans are a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish a good option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The protein content in beans can help in muscle repair and growth, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.

Vitamins and minerals

Beans are rich in various vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins. These nutrients play vital roles in the body, supporting everything from energy production to nerve function.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific dietary restrictions should check the labels of ingredients like catsup and molasses for potential allergens.

Summary

Overall, Baked Beans à la Crockpot is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in fats and calories, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Baked Beans à la Crockpot is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich history and simple preparation, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether served as a comforting main dish or a tasty side, these baked beans are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Baked Beans à la Crockpot. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I flipped through the yellowing pages, my eyes landed on a worn piece of paper with the title "Grandma's Baked Beans" scrawled across the top in faded ink.

I couldn't remember where I had gotten this recipe from, but something about it intrigued me. I had always loved baked beans, but I had never tried making them in a crockpot before. The idea of slow-cooking them for hours on end seemed like a deliciously comforting way to spend a day.

As I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me. I remembered watching my own grandmother in the kitchen, stirring pots of bubbling beans on the stove for hours on end. The aroma of smoky bacon and sweet molasses wafting through the house was enough to make my mouth water.

But this recipe was different. It called for a crockpot, a modern convenience that my grandmother never had the pleasure of using. I could almost hear her voice in my head, telling me to stick to the traditional way of making baked beans. But I couldn't resist the urge to try something new.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work, following the recipe step by step. I diced up onions and peppers, sizzled bacon in a skillet until it was crispy, and measured out the perfect amount of brown sugar and molasses. As I mixed everything together in the crockpot, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building inside me.

I set the timer for six hours and waited anxiously for the magic to happen. The house filled with the rich, savory scent of simmering beans, and I couldn't wait to dig in. When the timer finally beeped, I lifted the lid of the crockpot and was greeted by a bubbling, fragrant pot of perfectly cooked baked beans.

I scooped out a generous portion into a bowl and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - sweet, smoky, and oh so satisfying. I couldn't believe how delicious they were. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I thought back to all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one told a story, a piece of history passed down through generations. And now, with this recipe for Baked Beans à la Crockpot, I had added my own chapter to the culinary tale of my family.

I may not have learned this recipe from my grandmother, but I knew she would be proud of me for embracing new techniques and flavors. And as I savored each bite of those delicious baked beans, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that I had expanded my culinary horizons and created something truly special.

So, if you ever find yourself feeling curious about a new recipe, I urge you to give it a try. You never know what delicious surprises may be waiting for you in the kitchen. And who knows, maybe one day your own grandchildren will be flipping through your old recipes, inspired by the culinary adventures you embarked on.