Are you looking to add some flavor to your next barbecue or family gathering? Baked beans made in a Crock Pot can be a game-changer. Here are 5 simple steps to create a batch of sweet, savory, and tender baked beans that everyone will rave about.
Gather Your Ingredients
To start, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups of dried navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1⁄2 cup of brown sugar
- 1⁄2 cup of molasses
- 1⁄4 cup of ketchup or tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional, but adds a nice smoky flavor)
- 6-8 cups of water (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- 1 pound of bacon or salt pork, cut into chunks (optional, for extra richness)
Rinse and Prepare the Beans
After soaking, rinse your beans to remove any phytic acid and reduce cooking time:
- Drain the soaking water from the beans.
- Rinse the beans under cold water to ensure all the soak water is removed.
- Check for any remaining small stones or debris.
Layer Ingredients in Your Crock Pot
Now, let’s layer the ingredients in your slow cooker:
| Layer | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| Bottom | Bacon or Salt Pork |
| Next | Chopped Onion |
| Following | Beans |
| Pour Over | Water or Chicken Broth |
| Top | Remaining Ingredients Mixed Together |
Cook Low and Slow
To achieve that perfect texture:
- Set your Crock Pot to low for 8 to 10 hours.
- If you have less time, cook on high for 4 to 5 hours, but remember, slower cooking will yield better results.
- Stir occasionally to distribute flavors evenly.
🍲 Note: If using bacon or salt pork, the extra fat will render and help thicken the sauce. If not using, consider adding a tablespoon of butter or lard to achieve a similar effect.
Final Touches
As the beans near completion:
- Taste for seasoning and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed.
- If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and cook on high for the last hour to thicken.
- If too thick, you can add a bit more water or broth.
- Let the beans rest for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
In summary, making the perfect baked beans in a Crock Pot involves just a handful of steps but delivers a deeply flavorful side dish or main course. By taking your time with soaking, layering, and slow cooking, you can achieve a texture and taste that is hard to beat. These beans are not only great for casual meals but also make a fantastic addition to potlucks or tailgate parties.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
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Yes, you can use canned beans. However, reduce the cooking time since they’re already partially cooked. Drain and rinse the beans to remove excess sodium before adding them to the Crock Pot.
How do I keep the beans from becoming too mushy?
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By cooking on low heat and not stirring too often, you can prevent the beans from becoming too mushy. Also, adding a bit of salt or baking soda to the soaking water can help.
What if my sauce is too watery?
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Remove the lid from your Crock Pot during the last hour of cooking to allow the excess liquid to evaporate, or you can mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it quickly.
Can these baked beans be frozen?
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Yes, they can be frozen. Store in an airtight container and they will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Are there vegan options for this recipe?
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Definitely! Skip the bacon or use a vegan alternative like liquid smoke or smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your condiments are free from animal products.
