PamperYourKitchen
- 201
Cooking Baked Beans: A Beginner's Guide
- Thread starter PamperYourKitchen
- Start date
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The thread centers around participants sharing their experiences and recipes for cooking baked beans, particularly in the context of a beginner preparing for a picnic. Various methods and ingredients are discussed, reflecting personal preferences and family traditions.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
Main Points Raised
- One participant, identifying as a beginner, expresses uncertainty about making baked beans for the first time and seeks suggestions.
- Another participant shares their experience of making baked beans without measuring ingredients, mentioning onion, dry mustard, ketchup, molasses, and bacon.
- One user suggests using Busch's pre-made baked beans as an alternative for convenience.
- A participant mentions a recipe from the Casual Cooking book that received positive feedback from others who typically dislike beans.
- Another participant shares a family recipe that includes pork n' beans, brown sugar, ketchup, and onion, emphasizing the satisfaction of making homemade beans.
- One participant mentions their father's addition of beer as a secret ingredient to enhance the flavor of baked beans.
- Several users inquire about the outcome of the original poster's baked beans and express interest in the recipe used.
- Another participant shares a personalized family recipe that includes Great Northern beans, bacon, onion, brown sugar, and black pepper, noting their flexible approach to measurements.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ on whether to use homemade recipes or pre-made options, with some participants advocating for homemade while others prefer convenience. No clear consensus emerges on a single best method.
Contextual Notes
The discussion reflects a range of cooking experiences and preferences, particularly among those identifying as beginners and those with more experience in preparing baked beans.
Who May Find This Useful
Participants within the consultant community who are looking for cooking inspiration or seeking to share their own experiences with baked beans may find this discussion valuable.
DebbieSM
- 289
PamperYourKitchen
- 201
Lisa S
- 185
C
chefloriray
Erin,
I would rather make them homemade and brag I made them, (being a Pampered Chef) then saying "I just opened up a can and heated them up."
Here is the recipe I use alot cause its what the family asks me to bring:
1 lg. can pork n' beans
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 onion (chopped)
Mix all together and poor into greased pan and bake at 300 for 2 hrs stirring occasionally.
You can't screw this recipe up...mix in more to taste if needed but dont try to hurry it up it will thicken as you cook it.
I would rather make them homemade and brag I made them, (being a Pampered Chef) then saying "I just opened up a can and heated them up."
Here is the recipe I use alot cause its what the family asks me to bring:
1 lg. can pork n' beans
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 onion (chopped)
Mix all together and poor into greased pan and bake at 300 for 2 hrs stirring occasionally.
You can't screw this recipe up...mix in more to taste if needed but dont try to hurry it up it will thicken as you cook it.
PamperYourKitchen
- 201
quikcook
- 34
PamperYourKitchen
- 201
Valerie M
- 5
Erin:
I'm so glad you found a recipe you like. Here's another to try. I never care for "ketchup" style beans. Here's my mom's recipe, personalized a little bit to suit my family. If you try them, hope you enjoy.
1 can (40 oz) Great Northern beans (Do not drain.)
1/2 lb. "smoked" bacon, fried and crumbled, along w/ drippings (If bacon was very fatty and it seems like alot, don't use all of it, but use at least 2-4 tablespoons.)
About 2 tbsp very finely chopped onion
2/3 - 1 c. brown sugar (more or less to suit your taste)
Lots of finely ground black pepper (at least 1/2 - 1 tsp)
Mix all together. Bake, uncovered, 350 degrees for 1-1/2 hrs.
Note: I cut bacon into small pieces before frying, and then just fry in the small saute pan. I chop onion finely w/ food chopper (Can fry onion w/ bacon if desired.) I usually use more than the 2/3 c. sugar, but probably not a whole cup (I don't really measure.) If making for just my family, I use recipe as is. I double for get-togethers.
I'm so glad you found a recipe you like. Here's another to try. I never care for "ketchup" style beans. Here's my mom's recipe, personalized a little bit to suit my family. If you try them, hope you enjoy.
1 can (40 oz) Great Northern beans (Do not drain.)
1/2 lb. "smoked" bacon, fried and crumbled, along w/ drippings (If bacon was very fatty and it seems like alot, don't use all of it, but use at least 2-4 tablespoons.)
About 2 tbsp very finely chopped onion
2/3 - 1 c. brown sugar (more or less to suit your taste)
Lots of finely ground black pepper (at least 1/2 - 1 tsp)
Mix all together. Bake, uncovered, 350 degrees for 1-1/2 hrs.
Note: I cut bacon into small pieces before frying, and then just fry in the small saute pan. I chop onion finely w/ food chopper (Can fry onion w/ bacon if desired.) I usually use more than the 2/3 c. sugar, but probably not a whole cup (I don't really measure.) If making for just my family, I use recipe as is. I double for get-togethers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make baked beans?
To make baked beans, you will typically need navy beans or pinto beans, onion, bacon or salt pork, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, ketchup, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add other ingredients like garlic or bell peppers for extra flavor.
How do I prepare the beans before cooking?
Before cooking, you should soak the beans overnight in water to soften them. If you're short on time, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for a few minutes and then letting them sit for an hour. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
What cooking methods can I use for baked beans?
Baked beans can be cooked in several ways, including in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker. The oven method typically involves baking the beans at a low temperature for several hours, while the stovetop method is quicker but may require more attention. The slow cooker is convenient for set-and-forget cooking.
How long do I need to cook baked beans?
The cooking time for baked beans varies depending on the method. If using the oven, you may need to bake them for 2 to 3 hours at 300°F (150°C). On the stovetop, they can simmer for about 1 to 2 hours. In a slow cooker, they usually take around 6 to 8 hours on low heat.
Can I make baked beans ahead of time?
Yes, baked beans can be made ahead of time. They actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat them before serving.
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