ππ―π₯π½οΈ Apple Butter Baked Beans ππ―π₯π½οΈ
What is it?
Apple Butter Baked Beans are a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of apple butter with the savory goodness of baked beans. These beans are typically made with a mixture of navy beans, apple butter, brown sugar, bacon, and various seasonings. The result is a rich and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a hearty addition to your meal.
History:
The history of Apple Butter Baked Beans is rooted in American culinary traditions. Baked beans themselves have a long history in the United States, with Native Americans and early settlers incorporating beans into their diets. The addition of apple butter, a sweet and smooth spread made from apples, likely came about as a way to add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to this classic dish.
Components:
- Navy beans: The primary bean used in this dish, known for their mild flavor and ability to absorb other flavors well.
- Apple butter: Provides a sweet and fruity flavor that sets this dish apart.
- Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelizes during baking.
- Bacon: Adds smokiness and richness.
- Seasonings: Typically include ingredients like mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Steps to Prepare:
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Soak the Beans: Start by soaking 1 pound of dried navy beans in water overnight. This helps soften them and reduce cooking time.
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Cook the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then place them in a large pot. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of apple butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
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Combine Beans and Sauce: Place the cooked beans in a baking dish. Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and stir to coat them evenly.
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Add Bacon: Lay strips of bacon on top of the beans.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, uncover and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the beans are bubbling and caramelized.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a drizzle of apple butter for extra flavor.
Time Needed:
- Soaking beans: Overnight (8-12 hours)
- Cooking beans: 30 minutes
- Prep and assembly: 10-15 minutes
- Baking: 1 hour (including 15-20 minutes uncovered)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Apple Butter Baked Beans! ππ―π₯π½οΈ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Butter Baked Beans:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 300-350 calories
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 8-10 grams
- Sugars: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 6-8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-15 milligrams
- Sodium: 400-600 milligrams
- Potassium: 500-700 milligrams
- Iron: 2-4 milligrams
Health Information:
- Protein: Beans are a good source of plant-based protein, making this dish a suitable option for vegetarians and vegans.
- Fiber: The high fiber content in beans can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, which can help with weight management.
- Low in Saturated Fat: The saturated fat content is relatively low, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Nutrient-Rich: Beans are rich in essential nutrients like iron, potassium, and folate.
- Moderate Calories: The calorie content can vary based on portion size and ingredients used. Be mindful of portion sizes to fit your dietary goals.
- Added Sugar: The brown sugar and apple butter contribute to the sugar content. While these sugars are natural, it’s important to be aware of added sugars in your diet.
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s a good idea to calculate the exact nutritional information based on your ingredients and serving size using a nutritional calculator or app.
