Classic Baked Beans with Molasses and Brown Sugar

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:

  1. Soak the navy beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.

Cook the Beans:

  1. 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:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. Add the cooked beans to the pot and stir to coat them with the sauce.
  2. Add 4 cups of water and bring to a simmer.
  3. 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:

  1. 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!