Homemade B&M Baked Beans Recipe

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When the weather turns cooler or you’re looking for that comforting touch to your family meal, few dishes can evoke the warmth and satisfaction quite like a bowl of B&M Baked Beans. This humble classic has been gracing dinner tables for generations and with good reason. Each can of B&M Baked Beans comes packed with a rich history and traditional flavors that have withstood the test of time since 1867.

How to make B&M Baked Beans

B&M Baked Beans is a brand of baked beans that has been around for over 150 years. The company was founded in 1867 in Portland, Maine, and it’s known for its traditional, hearty baked beans. The beans are typically slow-cooked and come in various flavors, with the classic variety featuring a savory, slightly sweet sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (about 2 cups) dry navy beans (or small white beans)
• 8 cups of water (for soaking and boiling)
• 1/2 lb bacon or salt pork, cut into cubes (optional for a vegetarian version)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 cups water (for baking)

Instructions:

1. Soak the Beans: Rinse the dry beans and soak them overnight in 8 cups of water. If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method by bringing the beans and water to a boil, boiling for 2 minutes, then covering and setting aside for an hour.
2. Cook the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Add them to a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer gently until beans are tender but not falling apart, about 1 to 2 hours.
3. Prepare the Flavor Base: While the beans are cooking, if you’re using bacon or salt pork, render the fat in a skillet over medium heat until the pieces are golden but not crispy. Add in the chopped onion, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the molasses, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, mustard powder, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Combine and Bake: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Once the beans are cooked, drain them, reserving the cooking water. Mix the beans, the bacon (or salt pork) and onions, and the sauce in a Dutch oven or large oven-safe pot. Pour in about 3 cups of the reserved cooking water, or enough to cover the beans.
6. Bake: Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 3 to 4 hours. Check periodically to ensure beans do not dry out, adding more water if necessary. The goal is for the beans to become tender and the sauce to thicken.

Tips:

• Oven Temperature and Time: Baking low and slow is crucial. The original B&M baked beans are known for being slow-baked, which helps develop the deep flavors.
• Adjusting Sweetness and Tang: Taste the sauce before adding it to the beans, and change the sweetness or tanginess according to your preference by adding more molasses, brown sugar, or vinegar.
• Soaking Beans: Properly soaking the beans ensures they cook evenly and become perfectly tender.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or salt pork and consider adding a smoked paprika or liquid smoke for depth of flavor.

What to serve with

B&M Baked Beans, with their deep, satisfying molasses flavor and tender beans, are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of main courses and accompaniments.

BBQ Classics:

• Grilled Meats: B&M Baked Beans are the perfect partner for grilled meats. Think juicy burgers, tender steaks, or succulent ribs. The sweetness of the beans complements the smokiness of the meat flawlessly.
• Hot Dogs and Sausages: Elevate your hot dogs and sausages by serving them alongside a generous helping of baked beans. This combo is a nod to classic American cookouts.
• Barbecue Chicken: The rich sauce of the beans pairs perfectly with the tangy and sweet flavors found in barbecue chicken, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.

Breakfast Delights:

• Eggs and Toast: A British-inspired breakfast or brunch can include baked beans served over toast, with eggs cooked to your preference. This hearty meal will start your day on a high note.
• Breakfast Meats: Pair the beans with breakfast staples like bacon, sausages, or ham. The savory meats balance the sweetness of the beans for a satisfying morning meal.

Comfort Food Favorites:

• Mac & Cheese: For ultimate comfort, serve B&M Baked Beans alongside creamy macaroni and cheese. The contrasting textures and flavors make for a delightful combination.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread next to a scoop of baked beans is comfort food heaven. The cornbread can also soak up the delicious sauce from the beans.
• Mashed Potatoes: Pairing baked beans with creamy mashed potatoes offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, with the starchy goodness of the potatoes complementing the richness of the beans.

Healthy and Light Options:

• Grilled Vegetables: For a healthier side, grill some vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The char from the grill and the veggies’ natural sweetness pair beautifully with the deep flavors of the baked beans.
• Salads: Serve the baked beans with a fresh green salad or a tangy coleslaw to add a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the hearty beans.

Ingredients Substitutes

B&M Baked Beans are known for their traditional and distinct flavor profile, which includes ingredients like molasses, pork, and a blend of spices. However, if you’re looking to recreate or adapt this dish with substitute ingredients—either for health reasons, dietary restrictions, or simply to use what you have on hand—here’s a detailed guide on how to do so:

Beans:

Original: Navy beans are the standard in B&M Baked Beans.

Substitutes: You can use other types of white beans, such as Great Northern beans or cannellini beans. These alternatives will offer a similar texture and flavor absorption.

Molasses:

Original: Molasses adds a rich, sweet, and slightly smoky flavor.

Substitutes: For a similar sweetness and depth, you can use dark corn syrup, honey, or maple syrup. Brown sugar mixed with a little water can also work in a pinch.

Pork:

Original: Salt pork or bacon is often used to add richness and depth.

Substitutes: For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the pork altogether or use a smoked meat alternative like smoked tofu or tempeh. Adding a bit of liquid smoke can also help mimic the smoky flavor.

Sugar:

Original: Brown sugar or white sugar.

Substitutes: If reducing sugar intake, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia, keeping in mind that the flavor profile and texture might change slightly.

Mustard:

Original: Dried mustard powder.

Substitutes: If you’re out of dry mustard, a small amount of prepared mustard can be used as a replacement. Start with less, as the flavor can be more potent.

Vinegar:

Original: Apple cider vinegar.

Substitutes: You can substitute it with white vinegar, or for a different taste profile, try using balsamic vinegar. Lemon or lime juice can also work if you’re in a pinch.

Spices:

Original: Typically a blend including onion powder, garlic powder, and sometimes cloves or cinnamon.

Substitutes: Fresh onions or garlic can be sautéed and added instead of powders. If you’re out of specific spices like cloves or cinnamon, nutmeg or allspice are possible alternatives that can provide a warm and complex flavor.

Final Thoughts

No matter what you choose to serve with B&M Baked Beans, the key is to balance the flavors and textures for a well-rounded meal.

More Bean Recipes:

• Copycat New England Baked Beans Recipe
• Arroz Con Habichuelas (Puerto Rican Rice And Beans) Recipe
• Mung Bean Cake Recipe