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The Best Baked Beans

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Hearty and flavorful baked beans made from scratch in a slow cooker, combining navy beans, molasses, brown sugar, and savory meat for a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for BBQs and gatherings.

Ingredients

16 oz dried navy beans (or any small white bean)

1 medium onion, diced

½ cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed

⅓ cup molasses

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

2 teaspoons dry mustard

5 cups water

¼ to ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Salt, to taste

½ lb cooked, drained, and crumbled meat

Liquid smoke, to taste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pick through the dried beans to remove any debris or damaged beans.
  2. Combine the beans, diced onion, dark brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, dry mustard, water, and black pepper in a 6-quart slow cooker.
  3. Add the cooked meat and a few drops of liquid smoke to the mixture if desired.
  4. Stir the ingredients until well combined.
  5. Cover and cook on low for about 12 hours, or until the beans are tender.
  6. Once cooked, stir in salt to taste.
  7. Set the slow cooker to the “keep warm” setting until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and substitute vegetable broth for water.
  • Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 tablespoons of diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Smoky Flavor: Increase the amount of liquid smoke or add smoked paprika.
  • Sweet Twist: Incorporate a small can of crushed pineapple for added sweetness and texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water to desired consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/the-best-baked-beans/