What is Beans and Franks?
Beans and franks, often known as franks and beans, is a classic American comfort food dish that combines frankfurters (hot dogs) with baked beans in a rich and flavorful sauce. This combination creates a hearty meal that's both budget-friendly and universally loved for its nostalgic charm and straightforward preparation. Let's dive into how you can make your own version of this dish effortlessly.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 (16 oz.) can of baked beans
- 4-6 hot dogs (franks), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- 1/4 cup of ketchup or barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup of grated cheese
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Beans and Franks
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all the ingredients you’ll need. Ensure that your hot dogs are thawed if they were frozen, and pre-chop your onion to streamline the cooking process.
2. Preparing the Base
In a saucepan over medium heat, cook the chopped onion until it turns translucent. Add a bit of oil if necessary to keep the onions from sticking.
3. Adding the Beans
Add the can of baked beans directly to the pot with the onions. You can use either homemade baked beans or store-bought for convenience.
4. The Flavor Boost
Stir in the brown sugar, mustard, ketchup or barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the flavors meld together:
| Ingredient | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Brown sugar | Stir in | Adds sweetness to balance flavors |
| Mustard | Stir in | Gives a tangy kick |
| Ketchup or BBQ Sauce | Stir in | Provides depth and thickness to the sauce |
| Worcestershire sauce | Add | Enhances umami flavors |
| Garlic powder | Add | Seasoning for flavor |
| Salt and pepper | Season to taste | Adjusts overall taste |
🌟 Note: Adjust the sauce ratio according to your taste for a sweeter or more savory dish.
5. Adding the Franks
Introduce the hot dog pieces into the mix. If you prefer, brown the franks in the pan with a bit of oil before adding them to the beans. Allow everything to simmer together for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Toppings and Variations
While beans and franks are wonderful as is, you can enhance your dish with:
- A sprinkle of cheese right before serving to melt in.
- Chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
- A dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for some heat.
- Serve with bread or a side of corn bread for a complete meal.
As you serve this comforting dish, remember that its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it perfect for family meals, potlucks, or camping trips. Beans and franks can be customized easily to suit various tastes or dietary needs by adjusting the sauce, using different types of beans, or even substituting the hot dogs for vegetarian options.
Can I use different types of beans?
+
Absolutely! While baked beans are traditional, you can use navy beans, black beans, or even kidney beans for a different twist.
What are the best hot dog substitutes for a vegetarian version?
+
Tofu dogs, plant-based sausages, or even just more beans can replace the franks to cater to vegetarian diets.
How long will beans and franks keep in the fridge?
+
When stored properly in an airtight container, beans and franks can last 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Can this dish be frozen?
+
Yes, it can. Freeze in individual portions for convenience. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
