Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This pork and beans recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget those canned versions; this homemade recipe boasts rich, smoky flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork. It's a classic comfort food elevated to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet incredibly flavorful pork and beans recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Brown the Pork: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients: Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chicken broth, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the pork is very tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will develop!
-
Serve: Once the pork is tender, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade pork and beans!
Tips for the Best Pork and Beans:
- For extra smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Make it ahead: This recipe tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Spicy Pork and Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
- BBQ Pork and Beans: Stir in 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Pork and Beans: Omit the pork and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy pork and beans recipe is a fantastic example of delicious, healthy meals made with simple ingredients. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking at its best. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know what you think!