Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans ๐ฒ
Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans are a classic and delicious comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. These flavorful beans have a rich history, and they make for a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans are, their history, components, preparation steps, and estimated cooking time.
๐ History:
Baked beans have a long history dating back to Native American cuisine. They were a staple in the diet of Native Americans and were later adopted by European settlers in the New World. Baked beans have become a quintessential American dish, often associated with family gatherings and picnics.
Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans may not have a widely known historical origin, but they likely carry a name that suggests a family recipe passed down through the generations.
๐ฅ Components:
The main components of Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans typically include:
- Navy Beans: These small, white beans are the traditional choice for baked beans.
- Bacon or Salt Pork: Adds a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
- Onions: For a mild and sweet flavor.
- Molasses: Provides a deep, sweet richness.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelization.
- Mustard: Gives a slight tang and depth of flavor.
- Ketchup or Tomato Sauce: For a tomato-based sauce.
- Spices and Seasonings: Often, ingredients like paprika, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce are used for seasoning.
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
Here’s a simplified recipe for Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 325ยฐF (163ยฐC).
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Beans: Start by soaking one pound of navy beans overnight. Drain and rinse the beans, then place them in a large pot and cover with water. Boil the beans for about 10 minutes, then drain.
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Combine Ingredients: In a baking dish or a Dutch oven, combine the beans, bacon or salt pork, chopped onions, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, ketchup or tomato sauce, and your choice of spices and seasonings. Mix everything together to coat the beans evenly.
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Baking: Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours. Check the beans occasionally and add water if needed to keep them from drying out. The beans are ready when they are tender and the sauce has thickened.
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Serve: Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans are typically served hot as a side dish at family gatherings or picnics. They pair well with grilled meats and other classic American comfort foods.
โฐ Cooking Time:
The total time needed to prepare Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans can vary, but it usually takes around 2-3 hours of baking time after the initial preparation and soaking. So, be sure to plan accordingly, as this dish is well worth the time and effort!
Enjoy your hearty, emoji-worthy Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans! ๐๐ด๐ฉโ๐ณ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 240-280 kcal
- Total Fat: 2-6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1.5g
- Cholesterol: 5-15mg
- Sodium: 400-600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45-55g
- Dietary Fiber: 6-8g
- Sugars: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-12g
Health Information:
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Fiber: Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans are a good source of dietary fiber, primarily from the navy beans. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
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Protein: These beans provide a moderate amount of protein, making them a suitable side dish for vegetarians or a source of additional protein for others.
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Low in Fat: Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans are relatively low in fat, especially if you use lean bacon or limit the added fat sources.
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Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the recipe. To make this dish healthier, consider using low-sodium or no-salt-added ingredients to reduce the overall sodium content.
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Sugar: The added sugar in the form of brown sugar and molasses contributes to the sweetness of the dish. While they provide flavor, it’s essential to be mindful of your sugar intake, especially if you’re on a low-sugar diet.
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Balanced Meal: When served as a side dish or as part of a balanced meal with vegetables and protein, Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans can be a wholesome and satisfying addition to your diet.
Remember that the specific nutrition content may vary based on the ingredients and preparation method you use, so it’s a good idea to check product labels and adjust the recipe to meet your dietary needs and preferences.
๐ฝ๏ธ Enjoy your Aunt Vera’s Baked Beans in moderation, and consider incorporating them into a well-rounded and balanced diet for a delicious and comforting meal!
