How to Make BBQ Baked Beans

Baked beans have a rich history that dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, who originally cooked beans with maple syrup and bear fat in earthenware pots. European settlers adopted and adapted this method, eventually incorporating molasses and pork, ingredients they had brought with them. Baked beans became a staple in New England cuisine, with the traditional Boston baked beans being flavored with molasses and salt pork. Today, baked beans are enjoyed worldwide, often served as a side dish at barbecues and family gatherings.

Recipe for Baked Beans

Ingredients

• 6 cans (14 oz. each) white beans
• 10 bacon strips, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1/2 cup dark molasses
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Cook the Bacon: Heat an oven-proof large pot, such as a Dutch oven, over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until it starts to crisp.
3. Add the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to brown.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the white beans (including their liquid), BBQ sauce, mustard, dark molasses, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
5. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a soft boil.
6. Bake: Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 2 hours.
7. Alternative Method: If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can prepare the beans in a regular pot on the stovetop, then transfer them to a casserole dish. Cover with foil or a lid and place in the oven.
8. Serve: Remove the beans from the oven and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade baked beans as a delicious and hearty side dish!