5 Delicious Ways to Make Baked Beans Without Bacon

Who doesn't love a bowl of comforting baked beans? Whether you're following a vegetarian diet, looking to reduce your meat intake, or simply want to experiment with new flavors, there are numerous ways to make these beans delicious without bacon. Here are five delightful recipes that will make your taste buds dance, all while keeping your diet in check.

Baked Beans with Maple Syrup and Mustard

Combining the sweetness of maple syrup with the zesty kick of mustard, this recipe provides a savory yet sweet depth to the baked beans. Here’s how you can make them:

• 2 cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup of maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup of tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients together.
3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes to allow the top to caramelize.

🔥 Note: Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor mimicking the taste of bacon, but if you prefer, you can skip it or use smoked paprika for a different smoky essence.

Mediterranean Baked Beans with Feta

Incorporating the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, this dish is light yet flavorful, perfect for a summer day:

• 2 cans of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup of olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine all ingredients except feta and parsley in a baking dish.
3. Cover and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle feta over the top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This recipe highlights the richness of Mediterranean flavors, proving that baked beans can be equally delightful without bacon.

Smoky Chipotle and Pineapple Baked Beans

For those who love a bit of heat with sweetness, this fusion of flavors might just be the perfect balance:

• 2 cans of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of crushed pineapple, juice included
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce (choose a vegetarian option)
• 1/4 cup of molasses
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

This combination of sweet and spicy is sure to be a hit at any BBQ or potluck event.

Coconut and Tamarind Baked Beans

Venture into the exotic with this fusion of Indian and Thai culinary inspirations:

• 2 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons of tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pan, lightly toast cumin seeds. Then add ginger, tamarind paste, coconut milk, and stir to combine.
3. Add beans, salt, and transfer everything to a baking dish.
4. Bake for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.
5. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

This unique recipe offers a world of flavors, making it stand out in any meal plan.

Classic British Baked Beans

While often associated with bacon, British baked beans can be just as comforting without it:

• 2 cans of haricot or navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce (ensure it's vegetarian)
• 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional for smokiness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer.
2. Simmer on low for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. If you prefer, transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake at 300°F (150°C) for an additional hour for deeper flavor development.

This straightforward recipe brings back the comfort of traditional British baked beans, sans bacon.

Each of these recipes showcases the versatility of baked beans, allowing you to enjoy this comfort food in a new light. Not only do they provide a delightful eating experience, but they also cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can indulge in this classic dish. Experiment with these methods and let the beans take center stage in your culinary adventures!

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

+

Yes, you can use dried beans. Just remember to soak them overnight and then cook them until they’re soft before using them in any recipe. This will give you a richer flavor, but it requires more preparation time.

What can I use instead of liquid smoke if I want a smoky flavor?

+

Smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, or even a bit of roasted and ground black tea leaves can provide a natural smoky flavor.

Are these baked beans recipes suitable for meal prep?

+

Absolutely! These recipes are perfect for making in bulk. They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer periods, making them excellent for meal prep.