hearty baked beans are a delicious and wholesome plant-based option that's perfect for any meal. Packed with flavor and easy to make, they’re sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time7 hr
Total Time7 hr 10 min
Difficulty
Hard
Cooking Secrets
Soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt level.
Stir occasionally while baking to prevent the beans from sticking to the dish.
Ingredients
0/11
What Makes This Recipe Special
Hearty and full of flavor, making it a perfect comfort food for any day. It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, which helps keep you full and energized. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or add-ins.
Step 1
Soak the navy beans in a large bowl, covering them with plenty of cool water. Let them sit for at least 8 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain the beans and transfer them to a pot with 5 cups of fresh water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let the beans simmer gently for about an hour, or until they’re nice and tender.
Step 2
While the beans are cooking, preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). When the beans are ready, mix them in a 2-quart casserole dish along with the chopped onion, brown sugar, molasses, vinegar, mustard, garlic, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a good pinch of pepper. Put the lid on and pop it in the oven.
Step 3
Let everything bake slowly for 5 to 7 hours, giving it a good stir halfway through. If the beans start to look dry, add a splash of water to keep things moist. Once the time is up, take off the lid and bake for about another hour so the sauce can thicken up just how you like it.
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Recommendations
Serve warm alongside crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also pairs well with rice or baked potatoes for a complete meal. Adding a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can brighten the flavors.
How To Freeze This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it looks too thick. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried navy beans?
Yes, but reduce the initial cooking time since canned beans are already soft. Adjust liquid and baking time accordingly.
Do I need to soak the beans overnight?
Soaking helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time, but if you're short on time, quick soaking by boiling for 1-2 minutes and resting for an hour can work.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook soaked beans with the other ingredients on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally and adding water if needed.
What can I substitute for molasses if I don’t have any?
You can use maple syrup or dark brown sugar as a substitute for molasses, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables or spices?
Yes, feel free to add chopped bell peppers, smoked paprika, or chili powder to customize the flavor.
Why do I need to bake the beans for so long at a low temperature?
Slow baking allows the flavors to meld deeply and the sauce to thicken without drying out the beans.
What if the beans are still hard after simmering for an hour?
Continue simmering until tender before baking; older beans may take longer to soften.
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