These Classic Baked Beans with Molasses and Brown Sugar are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Slow-cooked to perfection, these beans are tender and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty main, they pair wonderfully with crusty bread or on toast.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cooking: 3-4 hours
- Total: 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups navy beans
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 4 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
Prepare the Beans:
- Soak the navy beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.
Cook the Beans:
- In a large pot, cover the beans with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Combine and Bake:
- Add the cooked beans to the pot and stir to coat them with the sauce.
- Add 4 cups of water and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Check occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the beans from drying out.
To Serve:
- Serve hot, with crusty bread or on toast for a classic touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or sausages.
- Enjoy as a hearty main dish with a side salad.
- Top with crispy bacon or chopped herbs for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and molasses to taste.
- Check the beans occasionally during baking to ensure they don’t dry out; add more water if needed.
Nutritional Benefits
- Navy Beans: High in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
- Onion and Garlic: Rich in antioxidants and known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats beneficial for heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes. This recipe contains no meat, fish, or animal by-products, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Vegan: Yes, provided you use a vegan Worcestershire sauce. Traditional Worcestershire sauce contains anchovies, so look for a vegan alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Some brands contain gluten, so check the label to ensure it meets gluten-free standards.
- Dairy-Free: Yes. There are no dairy products in this recipe, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy.
- Egg-Free: Yes. This recipe does not contain eggs or egg products, making it ideal for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, hearty flavor and tender texture.
- Perfect for any occasion: comforting side dish or satisfying main course.
- Slow-cooking process enhances and deepens flavors.
- Simple ingredients that create a delicious and nutritious dish.
- Versatile pairing options, great with crusty bread or on toast.
- Naturally vegetarian, with easy adaptations for vegan and gluten-free diets.
Conclusion
Enjoy these flavorful and hearty Classic Baked Beans with Molasses and Brown Sugar, perfect for family gatherings, BBQs, or a cozy meal at home. With their rich sauce and tender beans, they are sure to become a favorite. Serve with crusty bread or on toast for a classic touch. Bon appétit!