Suicide Beans Recipe: Delicious and Easy Vegetarian Comfort Food

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate destination for flavorful, wholesome, and innovative recipes that elevate everyday dishes into culinary delights. Today, we delve into a hearty and irresistibly flavorful dish known as Suicide Beans. This dish is a robust twist on traditional baked beans, crafted to satisfy both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike, offering a comforting, savory experience perfect for any gathering or cozy family dinner. Inspired by a beloved colleague’s secret recipe, Suicide Beans combine a medley of beans with rich, sweet, and tangy flavors, all slow-cooked to perfection to develop deep, melded tastes. Whether served at potlucks, holiday dinners, or weeknight meals, this recipe’s versatility and rich profile make it an enduring favorite. Join us as we explore every facet of this dish, from ingredients to preparation, and learn how to make it your own with tips, tricks, and customizations.

Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Crockpot or slow cooker (6-8 quart capacity recommended)
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Can opener
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Small bowl (for optional ingredients)

Tags

• Vegetarian
• Slow Cooker
• Comfort Food
• Beans
• Family-Friendly
• Potluck
• Easy Dinner

Serving Size

Each serving of Suicide Beans is approximately 1 cup, designed to fill a standard crockpot, which typically yields about 8-10 servings, depending on portion size and appetite.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as Easy. It requires minimal preparation and relies on the slow cooking process to develop flavors, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels, including beginners.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is naturally vegetarian when the bacon is omitted. It can also be adapted to vegan by replacing Worcestershire sauce with a vegan-friendly alternative and ensuring all other ingredients are plant-based.

Course

Main Dish / Side Dish

Cuisine

American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Ingredients in Detail

Instructions

Preparation Phase

Begin by preparing your beans. Open all canned beans—kidney, lima, and butter beans—and pour them into a colander or fine-mesh sieve. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess sodium, preservatives, and canning liquids. This step not only improves flavor but also helps control salt intake and prevents the dish from becoming overly salty. Drain well and set aside.

Next, prepare the onion. Peel the onion and chop it finely. The size of the chopped onion can be adjusted depending on preference; finer pieces will distribute more evenly, providing subtle flavor, while larger pieces will be more noticeable. Use a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board to ensure safety and precision during chopping.

Assembly and Cooking

In a slow cooker or crockpot, combine all the beans. Add the chopped onion directly into the crockpot. For those choosing to incorporate bacon, cook the bacon separately until crispy, then chop it into small pieces and add it to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon altogether or replace it with a smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky depth.

Measure out the molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Add these ingredients into the crockpot with the beans and onions. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to stir everything together thoroughly. Ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps in flavor melding during the slow cooking process.

Once assembled, set the crockpot to low heat. Cover with the lid, and let cook for approximately 6 to 8 hours. Slow cooking allows the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a deeply flavorful dish with tender beans and a slightly thickened sauce. For best results, avoid opening the lid during the first few hours of cooking, as heat retention is crucial for even cooking and flavor development.

Serving

When the cooking time is complete, give the beans a gentle stir, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and ingredients. Serve hot directly from the crockpot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes or bread. The consistency should be rich and saucy, with beans that are tender but not mushy. For presentation, garnish with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or chives if desired, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Preparation Tips

• Bean Choice: While canned beans are convenient, for even richer flavor, consider cooking dried beans from scratch. Soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the crockpot.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar by half or eliminate it altogether. Adjust to taste before serving.
• Flavor Enhancement: Incorporate a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking to add brightness and acidity.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to spice up the dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Customization: For a smoky flavor without bacon, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke during assembly.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Layer Flavors: For an extra depth of flavor, sauté the chopped onions in a little oil or butter until translucent before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances sweetness and aroma.
• Texture Control: To prevent beans from over-softening, monitor cooking time and avoid opening the lid excessively. If you prefer firmer beans, reduce cooking time slightly.
• Batch Cooking: Prepare a double batch and freeze leftovers in airtight containers for quick meals later. These beans reheat well and taste even better after resting overnight.
• Flavor Boosters: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or liquid smoke for a spicy or smoky kick, customizing the dish to your taste.

Add-ons

• Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or cilantro for garnish
• Crumbled feta or shredded cheese for added richness
• Chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for heat
• Additional smoked paprika or chipotle powder for smoky undertones

Side Dishes

• Crusty artisan bread or cornbread
• Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Grilled sausages or veggie skewers for a more substantial meal

Improvements

• Use dried beans for a more authentic and cost-effective approach—soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the crockpot.
• Add chopped bell peppers or celery along with onions for more layers of flavor and texture.
• Incorporate a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end to brighten the dish.
• Experiment with different bean combinations, such as black beans or chickpeas, to diversify flavors.

Save and Store

Leftover Suicide Beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to restore moisture.

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. To make Suicide Beans vegan, omit the bacon and ensure that Worcestershire sauce is vegan-friendly. You can substitute smoked paprika or liquid smoke to maintain smoky flavor.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes. Soak dried beans overnight in plenty of water, then cook until tender according to package instructions. Drain and add to the crockpot before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I cook this dish on high instead of low?

Yes, but it’s recommended to cook on low for 6-8 hours to develop richer flavors and prevent beans from becoming mushy. If using high, check for doneness after 3-4 hours and adjust accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Worcestershire sauce often contains gluten. Use a gluten-free Worcestershire or substitute with coconut aminos or tamari to keep the dish gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce during assembly. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Conclusion

Suicide Beans exemplify the art of transforming humble ingredients into a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish. Their slow-cooked richness, balanced sweetness, and optional smoky notes make them a versatile addition to any meal, whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a comforting weeknight dinner. This recipe’s adaptability allows for customization based on dietary needs and personal preferences, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Remember, the secret to maximal flavor lies in slow cooking and thoughtful ingredient selection. For more innovative recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Love With Recipes, where we celebrate the joy of cooking and sharing delicious meals.

References

• McGee, Harold. On Food and Cooking: The Science and Lore of the Kitchen. Scribner, 2004.
• Harold McGee, The Curious Cook: More Kitchen Science and Lore. HarperCollins, 2004.