Are you craving a comforting, flavorful side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these bourbon baked beans! This recipe elevates the classic baked bean to new heights with the subtle sweetness of bourbon and a hint of smoky flavor. Perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner, these beans are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound bacon, diced (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can of dark baked beans, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup bourbon (or substitute with apple cider for a non-alcoholic version)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If using bacon, add it to the pot now and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving the rendered bacon fat in the pot. Crumble the bacon and set aside.
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Combine the ingredients: Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans, undrained baked beans, chicken broth, brown sugar, bourbon (or apple cider), molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dry mustard, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Simmer and bake: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For an even richer flavor, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the beans are tender.
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Finishing touch: Stir in the reserved crumbled bacon during the last 5 minutes of simmering or baking. This adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious bourbon baked beans warm, as a side dish to grilled meats, alongside cornbread, or simply on their own!
Tips for the Best Bourbon Baked Beans:
- Don't be afraid to adjust the sweetness: Taste the beans as they simmer and adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. Some prefer them sweeter, while others like a more savory profile.
- For a thicker sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the beans uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking. You can also mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, and stir this into the beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking to thicken them.
- Make it ahead: These baked beans taste even better the next day! They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Beans: Add a pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- BBQ Beans: Stir in ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Beans: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fiber: 8-10g
This easy recipe for bourbon baked beans is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any meal. It's a delicious and relatively healthy side dish that's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the flavorful journey of homemade cooking!