Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans Recipe

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans recipe is a classic dish that has been passed down through generations.

This hearty and flavorful recipe is perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or any occasion where you want to enjoy a comforting and delicious side dish.

With a few simple ingredients and some time in the oven, you can create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So let’s dive into the preparation and variations of Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans recipe.

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans Recipe

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 8 hours (including soaking time)
• Cooking Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 11 hours
• Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

To make Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried navy beans
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups water

Optional Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Preparation

Before you can start baking the beans, you need to go through a few preparation steps.

Soaking The Beans

The first step is to soak the dried navy beans. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This process helps soften the beans and reduce the cooking time.

Cooking The Beans

Drain and rinse the beans once they have soaked. Place them in a big pot and fill it with 4 cups of water. After bringing the water to a boil, turn the heat down to low.

The beans should simmer for about an hour, or until they are soft but still have some structure. Drain the beans and set them aside.

Adding Flavors And Seasonings

In a another bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until the sugar dissolves. This mixture will give the baked beans their sweet and tangy flavor.

Baking The Beans

Now that the beans are prepared and the flavors are combined, it’s time to bake the beans to perfection.

Choosing The Right Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Choose a baking dish that can hold all the ingredients comfortably. A deep and oven-safe dish works best for this recipe.

Layering The Ingredients

Start by layering half of the cooked beans in the baking dish. Pour half of the flavor mixture over the beans, ensuring they are evenly coated. If you prefer a smoky flavor, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining beans and flavor mixture.

Baking Time And Temperature

Placing the baking dish in the preheated oven after covering it with foil or a lid. Bake for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the beans are cooked through and the flavors are unified. To enable the top to form a little caramelized crust during the final 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil or cover.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Sodium: 530mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 66g
• Dietary Fiber: 10g
• Total Sugars: 31g
• Protein: 11g

Please be aware that the nutrition information is approximative and may change depending on the precise brands and components used in the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways.

Side Dishes

These beans pair well with grilled meats such as burgers, hot dogs, or ribs. They also complement dishes like cornbread, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. The rich and hearty flavors of the baked beans add depth to any meal.

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flavor and texture, garnish the baked beans with chopped parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions. These additions add freshness and crunch to the dish.

Health Benefits Of Baked Beans

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans taste delicious and offer several health benefits.

Nutritional Value

Protein, fiber, and important minerals like iron and magnesium are all present in baked beans. They are a beneficial addition to your diet because they are also low in fat.

High In Fiber

The high fiber content in baked beans aids digestion and promotes a healthy digestive system. It can help regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels.

Source Of Protein

As baked beans are a plant-based source of protein, they are a great choice for vegetarians or people trying to consume less meat. Protein is essential for cell repair, growth, and overall body function.

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans Recipe Variations

While Grandma Brown’s original recipe is a classic, you can also experiment with some variations to suit your taste preferences.

Vegetarian Option

To make the recipe vegetarian-friendly, omit the bacon and add some diced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery. These vegetables will add texture and flavor to the dish.

Spicy Version

Add a chopped jalapeño pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper to the flavor mixture if you like a bit of heat. The spicy kick will give your baked beans an exciting twist.

Sweet And Tangy Twist

Substitute the molasses with maple syrup or honey for a sweeter version of Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans. This substitution will add a delicate sweetness to the dish.

Tips And Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans recipe turn out perfectly every time.

Using Canned Beans

If you’re short on time, you can use canned navy beans instead of dried ones. Rinse and drain the canned beans before using them in the recipe. This will reduce the cooking time significantly.

Make-Ahead Option

You can prepare Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans ahead of time and refrigerate them. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together, making the dish even more flavorful. Simply reheat the beans in the oven before serving.

Freezing And Reheating

You can freeze the baked beans if you have leftovers or want to make a larger batch. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Label and date the containers before placing them in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw the beans in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With its rich history and versatile nature, this dish has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved favorite.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a comforting side dish, Grandma Brown’s Baked Beans will satisfy your taste buds and your guests asking for the recipe.