Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this classic recipe for pork and beans! This homemade version surpasses canned options in both taste and texture, offering a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget those bland, overly-sweet canned beans; this recipe delivers hearty, savory goodness that will leave you wanting more. It's a fantastic example of how simple, healthy meals can also be incredibly delicious. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can of baked beans
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Pork
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and brown them on all sides. This step enhances the flavor and creates a beautiful depth of taste. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic burn; it will become bitter.
Step 3: Building Flavor
Stir in the thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas. This simple step adds a significant layer of flavor to your pork and beans.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the kidney beans, baked beans, chicken broth, brown sugar (or maple syrup), molasses, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5: Simmering to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for even more tender pork. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Seasoning and Serving
Once the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add more vegetables: Include diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use different beans: Experiment with other beans like pinto beans or black beans.
- Make it in a slow cooker: Brown the pork as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities. However, generally, you can expect a serving to be relatively high in protein and fiber, with moderate amounts of carbohydrates and fat.
This recipe is a great example of delicious and easy recipes that also make for healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights and a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!