Backwoods Idaho Thick and Hearty Smoky Baked Beans ๐ฒ
What is it?
Backwoods Idaho Thick and Hearty Smoky Baked Beans are a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender beans with a rich, smoky sauce. These baked beans are a classic American side dish, popular at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. They are known for their hearty, satisfying flavor and make an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or a standalone dish.
History ๐
Baked beans have a long history in American cuisine, dating back to Native American traditions. The dish was popularized by early American colonists and has since become a beloved comfort food. The smoky and hearty twist on baked beans, like the Backwoods Idaho version, likely evolved as people experimented with different ingredients to enhance the flavor.
Components ๐ฅซ
To prepare Backwoods Idaho Thick and Hearty Smoky Baked Beans, you will need the following components:
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of navy beans or pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup diced onion ๐ง
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper ๐ซ
- 1/2 cup ketchup ๐
- 1/4 cup molasses ๐ฏ
- 1/4 cup brown sugar ๐ง
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard ๐ญ
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce ๐
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits ๐ฅ (for that smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste ๐ง๐ง
- Optional: a dash of hot sauce ๐ถ๏ธ for a spicy kick
Steps to Prepare ๐ฝ๏ธ
-
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
-
In a large oven-safe dish or a cast-iron skillet, combine the drained and rinsed beans, diced onion, diced bell pepper, and cooked bacon bits.
-
In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and barbecue sauce. This forms the smoky and sweet sauce for your beans.
-
Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and stir everything together until the beans and veggies are well coated.
-
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if desired. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.
-
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
-
Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are tender, and the sauce is thick and bubbly. You can remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of baking for a slightly crispy top.
-
Once done, let the beans cool for a few minutes before serving. They will thicken further as they cool.
Time Needed โฑ๏ธ
The total time needed to prepare Backwoods Idaho Thick and Hearty Smoky Baked Beans is approximately 1 hour, including preparation and baking time. It’s a relatively straightforward dish to make and perfect for gatherings and family dinners.
Enjoy your smoky, hearty baked beans ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฒ, whether as a side dish at a barbecue or as a delicious standalone meal! ๐
Certainly! Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Backwoods Idaho Thick and Hearty Smoky Baked Beans:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 625mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 68g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 31g
- Protein: 14g
Health Information:
-
Good Source of Fiber: These baked beans are a good source of dietary fiber, with 8g per serving. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may help with weight management.
-
Protein: Baked beans also provide a decent amount of protein, with 14g per serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
-
Moderate Calories: While these baked beans provide a substantial amount of calories, they can be a filling and nutritious addition to your meal. The calorie count may vary depending on portion size and ingredient variations.
-
Sugars: Be mindful of the sugar content, as these baked beans contain 31g of sugars per serving. This comes from ingredients like molasses, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce. It’s essential to enjoy these beans in moderation if you’re watching your sugar intake.
-
Sodium: These beans have a moderate amount of sodium, with 625mg per serving. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you may want to adjust the recipe by reducing salt or choosing lower-sodium ingredients.
-
Balanced Meal: Baked beans are often served as a side dish, and when combined with other foods, they can contribute to a balanced meal. Consider pairing them with lean proteins and plenty of vegetables for a well-rounded and nutritious dinner.
Remember that these nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes. It’s a good idea to adjust the recipe or portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy your Backwoods Idaho Thick and Hearty Smoky Baked Beans in moderation as part of a balanced diet. ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐ฝ๏ธ
