Cathy's Baked Beans

Cathy's Baked Beans Recipe - Delicious Navy Beans with Molasses and Onion

Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 4 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Baked beans are a classic comfort food that have been enjoyed for generations. This recipe for Cathy's Baked Beans is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of navy beans, brown sugar, molasses, and bacon creates a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

History

Baked beans have a long history in American cuisine, with recipes dating back to the early colonial period. Originally, baked beans were made with beans, pork, and molasses, and were cooked slowly in a pot over an open fire. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients, but the basic concept of beans cooked in a sweet and savory sauce remains the same.

Ingredients

2 cups navy beans
2 tsp salt
3 tbsp brown sugar
0.25 cup molasses
1 bay leaf
0.5 tsp dry mustard
0.25 cup chopped white onion
1 cup boiling water
0.5 lb (227 g) salt pork (I have also used bacon and it works extremely well)

How to prepare

Wash the beans.
Cover the beans with water and let them soak overnight.
Drain the beans well.
In a large pot, cover the beans with a generous amount of boiling salted water and simmer for 1 hour. Drain the beans well.
In a separate bowl, combine salt, sugar, molasses, bay leaf, mustard, onion, and water. Add this mixture to the beans.
Pour the beans into a bean pot. Score the rind of the pork and press it into the beans, leaving the rind exposed.
Cover the beans with additional boiling water and bake them in a 300°F (149°C) oven for 4 hours.
Remove the cover for the last hour of baking.

Variations

There are endless ways to customize Cathy's Baked Beans to suit your taste preferences. Try adding diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick, or experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans. You can also try adding different seasonings, such as cumin or chili powder, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that your baked beans turn out perfectly every time, be sure to soak the beans overnight before cooking them. This will help to soften the beans and reduce the cooking time. Additionally, be sure to cover the beans with plenty of water while they are simmering to prevent them from drying out. Finally, be sure to score the rind of the pork before adding it to the beans to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Cathy's Baked Beans are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. They are delicious on their own as a main dish, or can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or sandwiches. For a complete meal, try serving them with cornbread and a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect baked beans is to cook them low and slow. Be sure to simmer the beans for at least an hour before baking them in the oven to allow the flavors to meld together. Additionally, be sure to cover the beans with plenty of water while they are baking to prevent them from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have navy beans on hand, you can use any type of dried beans in this recipe, such as pinto beans or black beans. You can also substitute maple syrup for the molasses, or use honey or agave nectar for a sweeter flavor. If you don't eat pork, you can omit the bacon or use turkey bacon instead.

Make Ahead Tips

Cathy's Baked Beans can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop before serving. You can also freeze the beans for up to 3 months for a quick and easy meal option.

Presentation Ideas

To make Cathy's Baked Beans look even more appetizing, try garnishing them with chopped parsley or green onions before serving. You can also serve them in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation, or top them with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Cathy's Baked Beans pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, sandwiches, and salads. For a complete meal, try serving them with cornbread, coleslaw, and grilled chicken or ribs. They also make a great side dish for a summer barbecue or picnic.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Cathy's Baked Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, simply place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake them in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cathy's Baked Beans contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cathy's Baked Beans contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help to fuel your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Cathy's Baked Beans contains approximately 10 grams of fat. While fats are often demonized in the diet, they are an essential nutrient that plays a key role in brain function and hormone production.

Proteins

Each serving of Cathy's Baked Beans contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Cathy's Baked Beans are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy blood pressure, muscle function, and energy levels.

Alergens

Cathy's Baked Beans contain bacon, which is a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Overall, Cathy's Baked Beans are a nutritious and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

Summary

Cathy's Baked Beans are a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a rich and flavorful sauce made from navy beans, brown sugar, molasses, and bacon, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether served as a main dish or a side dish, Cathy's Baked Beans are sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It all started one summer afternoon when my dear friend Cathy invited me over for a backyard barbecue. As we chatted and laughed, the delicious aroma of her baked beans wafted through the air, making my mouth water.

I couldn't help but ask Cathy for the recipe, and with a twinkle in her eye, she handed me a weathered piece of paper with her handwritten instructions. She explained that these baked beans were a family recipe that had been passed down for generations, and that she was delighted to share it with me.

I couldn't wait to try making Cathy's Baked Beans for myself. As soon as I got home, I gathered the ingredients and got to work. The recipe called for a blend of kidney beans, molasses, brown sugar, and a secret spice mix that Cathy had developed over the years. The beans were then baked in the oven until they were tender and flavorful.

As the beans baked, my kitchen filled with the same mouthwatering aroma that had drawn me to Cathy's barbecue. I eagerly took my first bite, and was instantly transported back to that sunny afternoon in Cathy's backyard. The beans were rich, sweet, and tangy, with just the right amount of spice.

I knew that I had stumbled upon a truly special recipe, one that would soon become a staple in my own kitchen. Over the years, I have made Cathy's Baked Beans countless times, always with a smile on my face as I remember the day I first discovered them.

I have since shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy and deliciousness of Cathy's Baked Beans far and wide. Each time I make them, I am reminded of the friendship and camaraderie that brought me to Cathy's backyard that summer day.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of bubbling baked beans on the stove, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. And I know that as long as I have Cathy's recipe, I will always have a taste of that special summer afternoon to savor and enjoy.