Slow Cooker Baked Beans Recipe: 3 Easy Budget-Friendly Benefits

Introduction to Slow Cooker Homemade Beans

Slow cooker homemade beans are a staple in many cuisines, offering a deliciously easy way to prepare a hearty side dish. This recipe combines the richness of bacon, the sweetness of brown sugar, and the tanginess of ketchup to create a flavorful bean dish. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for those looking for a hassle-free yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients Needed

To make this scrumptious slow cooker homemade beans recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound dry beans (such as Great Northern or navy beans)
• 8 cups water
• 4 ounces diced salt pork or bacon
• 1 cup chopped onion
• ½ cup molasses
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard (preferably Dijon)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ketchup

Instructions for Preparation

Preparing these slow cooker homemade beans is straightforward and requires minimal effort once you’ve gathered all your ingredients.

1. Rinse and Soak the Beans: Rinse the beans and soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse them again before adding them to the slow cooker.
2. Cook the Bacon and Onion: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the grease behind. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is translucent.
3. Assemble the Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, combine the soaked and drained beans, cooked bacon and onion, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, salt, black pepper, and ketchup. Pour in the water to cover the ingredients.
4. Cook on Low: Cook the mixture on the low setting for 8 to 10 hours or on the high setting for 4 to 5 hours.

Why Slow Cooker Homemade Beans Are a Great Choice

Slow cooker homemade beans offer several advantages over traditional cooking methods:

• Convenience: Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-eat dish.
• Flavor Enhancement: The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and complex taste profile.
• Cost-Effective: Using dried beans and other pantry staples makes this recipe budget-friendly.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences and dietary needs:

• Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Smoky Flavor: Use liquid smoke to give the beans a smoky flavor reminiscent of outdoor cooking.
• Meat Variations: Substitute the bacon with ground beef or ham for a different twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why should I soak the beans overnight?

A: Soaking reduces cooking time and helps the beans cook more evenly, resulting in a better texture.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

A: While you can use canned beans, they are already cooked and may not absorb the flavors as well as dried beans. Dried beans provide a more authentic taste and texture.

Q: How do I store leftover beans?

A: Store leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This slow cooker homemade beans recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Its ease of preparation and rich flavor make it a favorite among home cooks. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Author

Shinta

 

Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.

Read full bio of Shinta