Prepare the Beans:
Soak the navy beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.
Cook the Beans:
In a large pot, cover the beans with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Combine and Bake:
Add the cooked beans to the pot and stir to coat them with the sauce.
Add 4 cups of water and bring to a simmer.
Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Check occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the beans from drying out.
To Serve:
Serve hot, with crusty bread or on toast for a classic touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or sausages.
Enjoy as a hearty main dish with a side salad.
Top with crispy bacon or chopped herbs for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and molasses to taste.
Check the beans occasionally during baking to ensure they don’t dry out; add more water if needed.
Nutritional Benefits
Navy Beans: High in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.
Onion and Garlic: Rich in antioxidants and known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats beneficial for heart health.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian: Yes. This recipe contains no meat, fish, or animal by-products, making it suitable for vegetarians.
Vegan: Yes, provided you use a vegan Worcestershire sauce. Traditional Worcestershire sauce contains anchovies, so look for a vegan alternative.
Gluten-Free: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Some brands contain gluten, so check the label to ensure it meets gluten-free standards.
Dairy-Free: Yes. There are no dairy products in this recipe, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy.
Egg-Free: Yes. This recipe does not contain eggs or egg products, making it ideal for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich, hearty flavor and tender texture.
Perfect for any occasion: comforting side dish or satisfying main course.
Slow-cooking process enhances and deepens flavors.
Simple ingredients that create a delicious and nutritious dish.
Versatile pairing options, great with crusty bread or on toast.
Naturally vegetarian, with easy adaptations for vegan and gluten-free diets.
Conclusion
Enjoy these flavorful and hearty Classic Baked Beans with Molasses and Brown Sugar, perfect for family gatherings, BBQs, or a cozy meal at home. With their rich sauce and tender beans, they are sure to become a favorite. Serve with crusty bread or on toast for a classic touch. Bon appétit!
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