Hawaiian Baked Beans

Hawaiian Baked Beans Recipe - Vegetarian Dish From Hawaii

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50-55 minutes | Servings: 4-6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a delicious and unique twist on traditional baked beans. The combination of sweet pineapple chunks and savory beans creates a flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

History

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a popular dish in Hawaii, where the tropical flavors of pineapple are often incorporated into savory dishes. This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the hearty texture of baked beans to create a dish that is both comforting and exotic.

Ingredients

2 cans of vegetarian beans in tomato sauce
1 can of drained pineapple chunks
1-2 tbsp of light brown sugar
1.5 tsp of mild mustard
0.25 tsp of salt
a dash of ground cloves

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients and pour them into a 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish.
Bake, uncovered, in a 375°F (191°C) oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until the beans are hot, stirring occasionally.
This recipe makes 4 to 6 servings.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Mix in some diced bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
Top with shredded cheese before serving for a gooey, cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the beans occasionally while baking to ensure that they cook evenly.

- For a more intense flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Baked Beans are delicious served alongside grilled chicken or pork, or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can use a can of baked beans in sweet sauce instead of vegetarian beans.

- If you don't have mild mustard, you can use Dijon mustard or yellow mustard instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Hawaiian Baked Beans up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Hawaiian Baked Beans in a colorful casserole dish and garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Hawaiian Baked Beans pair well with grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, or steak, as well as with a side of coleslaw or cornbread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hawaiian Baked Beans contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hawaiian Baked Beans contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hawaiian Baked Beans contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Hawaiian Baked Beans contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check the labels on your canned ingredients for any potential allergens.

Summary

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a nutritious and flavorful side dish that is low in fat and calories, but high in fiber and essential nutrients.

Summary

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that is perfect for summer barbecues or potlucks. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory beans creates a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Hawaiian Baked Beans. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I found myself in the bustling city of Honolulu. I had always been drawn to the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of Hawaii, and on this particular day, I found myself wandering through a local market, soaking in the sights and sounds of the island.

As I meandered through the stalls filled with fresh fruits, colorful flowers, and fragrant spices, a sweet aroma caught my attention. I followed my nose to a small food stand tucked away in a corner of the market. There, a kindly old woman was stirring a large pot of bubbling beans, her hands moving with practiced ease.

Intrigued, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation. She told me that the secret to her delicious Hawaiian Baked Beans lay in a special blend of ingredients passed down through generations of her family. I watched as she added pineapple, brown sugar, and a hint of soy sauce to the simmering pot, filling the air with a mouth-watering scent.

I knew then and there that I had to learn the recipe for myself. The woman smiled warmly and invited me to stay and watch as she prepared the dish. As she worked, she shared stories of her childhood in Hawaii, of lazy days spent on the beach and festive luaus filled with music and laughter. I listened intently, captivated by her tales and the rich history behind this simple yet flavorful dish.

After hours of watching and learning, the woman handed me a handwritten recipe card, the ink smudged and faded with age. She told me to cherish it, to pass it down to my own family for generations to come. I thanked her profusely and promised to do just that.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in recreating the Hawaiian Baked Beans recipe in my own kitchen. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions on the yellowed recipe card with care. The familiar scents of pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce filled my home, transporting me back to that bustling market in Honolulu.

As the beans simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but smile at the memories that flooded back. I remembered the warm sun on my skin, the sound of the ocean in the distance, and the taste of the woman's delicious beans on my tongue. In that moment, I felt a deep connection to Hawaii and its rich culinary heritage.

When the beans were finally ready, I scooped a generous portion onto a plate and took a hesitant bite. The flavors exploded on my taste buds, a perfect balance of sweet and savory that danced on my palate. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling a sense of gratitude for the kind woman who had shared her recipe with me.

Since that day in Honolulu, Hawaiian Baked Beans have become a staple in my household. I make them for special occasions, family gatherings, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepare the dish, I am reminded of the woman in the market, her stories and her generosity. I am reminded of the beauty of sharing recipes and traditions, of passing down a piece of history from one generation to the next.

As I sit here now, writing this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile at the thought of them carrying on the tradition of Hawaiian Baked Beans. I hope that they will find joy in cooking, in exploring new flavors and cultures, just as I have. And who knows, perhaps one day they will stumble upon a recipe that captures their heart and soul, just as this one did for me.