Mom's Baked Beans

Mom's Baked Beans Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 6-8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mom's Baked Beans is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well.

History

Baked beans have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish dating back to Native American and Colonial times. The addition of molasses, ketchup, and mustard to the beans creates a sweet and tangy flavor profile that is beloved by many.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked (about 2 cups dry) navy or other white beans
1 onion, chopped
0.33-0.5 cup molasses (depending on your taste)
0.33 cup natural ketchup
0.25 cup prepared yellow mustard
0.25-0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
cooking liquid from the beans

How to prepare

Once the beans have reached a tender consistency, drain them while keeping the cooking liquid aside.
Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). In a casserole dish or loaf pan, thoroughly combine all ingredients except for the beans and their cooking liquid. Add the beans to the mixture, ensuring they are covered by approximately an inch of the reserved cooking liquid. Use a tight-fitting lid or foil to cover the dish, then bake in the oven for 6–8 hours. Stir occasionally and add more liquid as necessary, until the beans are fragrant and extremely soft.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Substitute maple syrup for the molasses for a different sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the beans overnight before cooking to ensure they are tender and cook evenly.

- Stir the beans occasionally while baking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the dish.

- Adjust the amount of molasses and cayenne pepper to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Mom's Baked Beans are perfect served alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pinto beans or black beans instead of navy beans.

- Substitute honey for the molasses.

Make Ahead Tips

Mom's Baked Beans can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before reheating.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mom's Baked Beans in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh parsley or green onions.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mom's Baked Beans with grilled chicken, ribs, or hot dogs for a classic barbecue meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mom's Baked Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mom's Baked Beans contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mom's Baked Beans contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mom's Baked Beans contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mom's Baked Beans contains approximately 7 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mom's Baked Beans are a good source of iron, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains mustard and may not be suitable for those with mustard allergies.

Summary

Mom's Baked Beans are a nutritious and delicious side dish that is high in fiber and protein, making them a great addition to any meal.

Summary

Mom's Baked Beans are a timeless and comforting dish that is sure to please a crowd. With a rich history and delicious flavor, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Mom's Baked Beans. It was a warm summer day, just like any other day, when I had decided to visit my dear friend Martha for tea. As we sat in her quaint little kitchen, sipping on our tea and catching up on old times, Martha suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. She returned with a worn-out recipe card in her hand, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

"Darling, I want to share something special with you," Martha said, as she handed me the card. "This is my mother's recipe for the most delicious baked beans you'll ever taste. I've been making them for years, and they always remind me of home."

I eagerly took the recipe card from her hands and studied it intently. The ingredients were simple and the instructions clear, but there was something about the way Martha spoke about these baked beans that piqued my curiosity. I could sense the love and nostalgia behind every word she spoke, and I knew I had to try making them myself.

That evening, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. As the beans simmered on the stove, filling the air with their rich, savory aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and comfort wash over me. It was as if Martha's mother's spirit was guiding me through every step, ensuring that the beans turned out just right.

When the baked beans were finally ready, I took a cautious bite and was instantly transported back to my own childhood. The flavors were robust and hearty, the perfect combination of sweet and savory. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would pass down to future generations.

Over the years, I have made Mom's Baked Beans countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, always receiving rave reviews and requests for seconds. But it wasn't until recently that I truly understood the magic behind these beans.

One rainy afternoon, my own daughter came over for a visit. As we sat in my kitchen, sipping on tea and chatting about life, she suddenly turned to me with a hopeful look in her eyes.

"Mom, do you think you could teach me how to make your famous baked beans?" she asked, a hint of hesitation in her voice.

I smiled, feeling a swell of pride and joy in my heart. It was the same look I had seen in Martha's eyes all those years ago, the look of someone eager to learn and carry on a cherished tradition. Without a second thought, I handed my daughter the recipe card and began to show her the ropes.

As we cooked together, the kitchen filled with laughter and love. I watched as my daughter carefully measured the ingredients, stirred the pot with confidence, and tasted the beans with anticipation. And when the dish was finally ready, we sat down to enjoy a meal that was more than just food – it was a connection to our past, a bond that spanned generations.

And as we savored each bite of Mom's Baked Beans, I knew that this recipe would continue to bring joy and comfort to our family for years to come. It was a simple dish, made from humble ingredients, but it held within it the power to create memories, to forge connections, and to remind us of the love that binds us together.

So here's to Mom's Baked Beans, a recipe that has stood the test of time and will forever hold a special place in my heart. And as I pass it on to my daughter and grandchildren, I know that its magic will live on, bringing warmth and nourishment to all who taste its delicious goodness.