Homemade Pork and Beans: Slow Cooker Recipe (Gluten-Free)
This Homemade Pork and Beans recipe is the epitome of a comforting, hearty meal that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re emptying out those ketchup bottles or simply seeking a classic, satisfying dish, this recipe is your go-to. Itโs not only easy but also a fantastic way to use up pantry staples while delivering a delicious and filling dish. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on other tasks or relax until supper time. With a side of toast and a crisp salad, this meal is perfect for any occasion. Leftovers are a boon for creating a rich homemade chili, and for those following a gluten-free diet, just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 3-4 cups dried navy beans
- 8-12 cups cold water
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup water (additional)
- 1 pound bacon, chopped
Instructions
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Prepping the Beans:
- If your beans have soaked overnight, begin by draining them and adding enough hot water to cover the beans by about an inch. This will help to start cooking them and ensure they reach the right tenderness.
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Cooking the Beans:
- Stir the beans gently to mix.
- Cover the pot and cook on High for at least 1 hour, or longer if needed, until the beans are tender. The beans must be tender before proceeding to the next step; otherwise, they will be hard to soften later on.
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Preparing for Slow Cooking:
- Drain the beans thoroughly. If you forgot to soak them overnight, simply place 4 cups of beans into the slow cooker.
- Add at least 10 cups of hot water to the slow cooker, ensuring the beans are covered.
- Cover and cook on High for 2 hours. Check the beans to ensure they are soft and tender before moving on.
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Final Cooking Phase:
- Once the beans are tender, drain them once more.
- Transfer the beans to the slow cooker and add the following remaining ingredients: molasses, corn syrup, prepared mustard, brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and additional water.
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Combining Ingredients:
- Stir the mixture gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours, or on High for 4 to 5 hours. The slow cooker will meld all the flavors beautifully and ensure the beans are fully cooked and rich in flavor.
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Serving:
- Once cooked, the beans will be deliciously tender and infused with a sweet, tangy flavor from the combination of molasses, brown sugar, and ketchup. Serve them warm with toast and a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.
Enjoy the ease and flavor of this homemade pork and beans recipe, which not only simplifies your meal preparation but also delivers a classic dish with a delightful twist. Donโt forget to store any leftovers in the freezer, as they make a fantastic addition to homemade chili for future meals!