I’ve loved BBQ baked beans for as long as I can remember. They’re equal parts savory and sweet with a little spice. My version includes instructions for both dry pinto beans and canned, depending on how much time you’ve got on your hands. Let us show you how easy it is!
Origin of Baked Beans
The exact origin of baked beans isn’t clear, but there are a few theories. One theory suggests that they may have originated from a Native American dish that involved cooking beans in fat and maple syrup. Another says that the dish is based on French bean stew cassoulet. Then, in the late 1800s, an entrepreneur named Henry Heinz introduced his baked beans to the US and later the UK. Baked beans are now common in many areas of the world. Thank goodness because we love baked beans!
How to Make BBQ Baked Beans
This 1-pot recipe starts with pinto beans that are soaked overnight (or at least 6 hours). They’re then simmered with a little vegetable broth and water. That’s where the fun begins. Mustard is added for a little tanginess, tomato paste for a hearty tomato flavor, coconut sugar for natural sweetness, and chili powder for heat. Next come salt and pepper to taste and an optional dash of hot sauce for a little heat to balance the sweetness. The real secret of these beans comes from a dash of liquid smoke, which adds a smokiness that traditionally comes from bacon. This meat-free version is just as rich and satisfying as the “real deal.”
We hope you LOVE these beans! They’re: HeartySmokySalty-sweetSubtly spicedEasy to makeSuper versatile& So delicious These beans would make the perfect side to just about any grilled dish like our Grillable Veggie Burgers, BBQ Black Bean Burger, and Grilled Veggie Skewers. They would also pair especially well with our Garlicky Kale Salad and Simple French-Style Potato Salad! For more bean recipes, check out our Hummus From Scratch, Actually Crispy Baked Chickpeas, 1-Pot Mexican Pinto Beans, and Easy 1-Pot Black Beans from Scratch! If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
