Proper British Baked Beans from Scratch No Tins Allowed

Recipe Introduction

Ever had a craving that only british baked beans could satisfy? Me too! I remember my first full english breakfast in London.

The baked beans on toast ? Game changer. This authentic british baked beans recipe aims to recreate that experience at home.

From Tin to Table: Why Homemade?

store-bought just doesn't cut it, does it? This recipe isn't just about convenience. It’s about flavor. Think rich, tangy, and smoky, unlike anything from a tin.

Plus, you know exactly what's going into it. This recipe is one of the best baked beans recipe .

A Bit of History and a Lot of Flavor

The concept of homemade baked beans has deep roots. It probably all started with Native Americans. This version? Definitely British.

Our british baked beans recipe takes time. It needs a bit of planning. But honestly? It's worth it. This recipe yields six servings.

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Benefits Beyond the Breakfast Plate

Beyond the amazing taste, beans are good for you! They are packed with fiber and protein. This helps keep you full and satisfied.

Perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy weeknight dinner. What makes this recipe special? The depth of flavor! It comes from a slow simmer and quality ingredients.

I guarantee everyone will want seconds.

Ingredients & Equipment For The Best British Baked Beans Recipe

So, you wanna ditch the tinned stuff and make proper british baked beans from scratch? Ace! Let's talk about what you'll need.

It's not rocket science, but getting the ingredients right makes all the difference. Forget the overly sweet, mass produced stuff and treat yourself to homemade baked beans .

Main Ingredients: Let's Get Bean-y!

Alright, first things first: beans. You'll need 1 pound (450g) dried haricot beans , also known as navy beans. Don't skimp on these.

They are the star of the show! Make sure they are clean and unbroken. Older beans can take longer to cook, so buy from a reputable shop.

For soaking, you'll need 8 cups (2 liters) water . Plus, a 1 bay leaf and 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) .

Trust me on the bicarb it helps soften the beans and makes them easier to digest. My nan always swore by this for avoiding, shall we say, unpleasant side effects.

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce

Now for the good stuff: the sauce! Grab these: 2 tablespoons olive oil , 1 large onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced).

Then comes the bacon, pancetta, or salt pork. You will need 4 ounces (115g) of diced smoked bacon , pancetta, or salt pork.

Smoked is better, trust me. Then, 1 (14.5 ounce/400g) can crushed tomatoes , ½ cup (120ml) tomato passata (tomato puree) for a super tomato boost.

Don’t forget the sweet and savory: 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses , 2 tablespoons brown sugar , 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar , 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce , 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder , and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika .

Plus, salt and pepper, of course! Then, 1 cup (240ml) reserved bean cooking liquid , or you can use vegetable broth to add to the sauce.

The molasses really brings the authentic British baked beans flavor. If you want a vegetarian baked beans recipe, simply skip the bacon.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need fancy gear. Just a large bowl or pot for soaking, a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking, and a wooden spoon for stirring.

If you don't have a Dutch oven, a heavy bottomed pot works just fine.

The beauty of this british baked beans recipe is that it's pretty low-tech. You're aiming for a slow simmer; something that'll just tick away on the hob for a couple of hours.

It almost feels like my old slow cooker baked beans recipe in that aspect. It is definitely the best baked beans recipe for any person who loves food.

I've made baked beans on toast with less gear and still managed to wow everyone. Plus, it's an essential part of a full english breakfast so learning to make them properly is worth the small effort.

Cooking Method: Proper British Baked Beans from Scratch

Right then, fancy making some proper homemade baked beans ? Forget the tinned stuff. This recipe is the real deal.

We are going to make you the best baked beans recipe . You know? The kind that makes you want to slap your nan, they're that good.

Trust me, it's worth the effort for the ultimate comfort food.

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, let's get organised. It's all about the mise en place , darling. This means getting everything ready before you even think about turning on the hob.

Chop your onion, mince your garlic, dice your bacon, and measure out all your spices. Soaking is key. Don't skip this! Put the beans into the water the night before.

step-by-step Process: From Soaked to Simmered

Ready to get cooking? Let's do this!

1. Soak 1 pound dried haricot beans overnight in 8 cups water with 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda.
2. Drain, rinse, and simmer the beans in fresh water with a bay leaf for 45- 90 minutes . Drain, but keep 1 cup of the liquid.
3. Sauté onion, garlic, and 4 ounces of diced bacon until golden.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, molasses, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked beans and reserved liquid. Simmer, covered, for 60- 90 minutes .
6. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Pro Tips: Secrets from a Seasoned Cook

Honestly, the secret to proper authentic british baked beans is patience. Give those beans time to slow simmer. It will make such a difference.

Don't rush it! And another thing, always taste as you go. You know, a pinch of this, a dash of that.

.. You get me. Wanna get a full english breakfast done in no time? Prepare a big batch of vegetarian baked beans on Sunday evening and you are sorted for the week.

Now, lets talk about the mistakes that people make. It is when they do not soak the beans. It is vital! Also, be careful not to burn the garlic.

Nobody likes burnt garlic.

Lastly, you can make these ahead of time. The flavors only get better with age. Job done! Enjoy your amazing british baked beans on toast .

Recipe Notes: Your Guide to Glorious British Baked Beans

Alright, so you're about to embark on your homemade baked beans journey! This isn't just another british baked beans recipe , this is the recipe.

So, here are a few notes to make sure your authentic british baked beans are top-notch. Honestly, it's easier than you think.

Serving Suggestions: Beans, Beans, Everywhere!

Let's talk plating. For a simple, classic presentation, spoon your british baked beans over a slice of buttered toast. It’s the ultimate baked beans on toast experience.

For a fancier touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of crème fraîche.

But don't stop there! These molasses baked beans are awesome as a side to a full english breakfast , alongside sausages, bacon, eggs, the works! They also pair perfectly with bangers and mash.

Wash it all down with a cuppa, naturally.

Storage Tips: Bean There, Stored That

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the beans cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They'll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days .

Freezing is also an option. Portion the beans into freezer safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. They can be frozen for up to 3 months .

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. A little splash of water helps prevent them from drying out.

Variations: Bean There, Done That (Differently)

Want to shake things up? For a vegetarian baked beans version, skip the bacon and add a tablespoon of smoked paprika for that smoky flavour.

You could add a diced chili for a kick of spice.

Got a glut of garden tomatoes in the summer? Chop them up and add them fresh to the sauce! For a winter warmer, a pinch of cinnamon adds warmth.

Feel free to play around!

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Each serving of these best baked beans recipe clocks in at roughly 350 calories , packing a protein punch of 20g and a hefty dose of 15g of fiber .

The haricot beans themselves are low in fat and high in nutrients. Plus, that molasses and tomato provide antioxidants. The recipe is high in fat due to the bacon, but using turkey bacon will reduce the overall fat content.

Honestly, making your own british baked beans from scratch is so rewarding. It might seem like a bit of effort but the flavour is worlds away from the canned stuff.

Give it a go and I reckon you won’t regret it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I bother making British baked beans from scratch when I can just buy them in a tin?

While tinned baked beans are a convenient standby, homemade British baked beans offer a depth of flavour you simply can't get from a can. Think of it like instant coffee versus a proper barista brew!

You have complete control over the ingredients, sweetness, and seasoning, resulting in a richer, more satisfying dish that'll have you saying "Cheers!" after every bite.

How long do I really need to soak the beans for proper British baked beans? Can I skip it?

Soaking the beans is crucial, old chap! It rehydrates them, leading to more even cooking and reduces the phytic acid content, making them easier to digest (and reducing any, shall we say, unpleasant side effects). Ideally, aim for 8-12 hours of soaking.

If you're really in a pinch, a quick soak method (boiling for a few minutes, then letting them sit for an hour) can work, but the overnight soak is best.

Can I make these British baked beans in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! For a slow cooker, sauté the aromatics and bacon first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. In an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to cook the aromatics and bacon, then add the remaining ingredients.

Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly, as the slow cooker and Instant Pot retain moisture more than stovetop cooking.

How can I store leftover British baked beans? How long will they last?

Leftover British baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They actually taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together! You can also freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Just be sure to cool them completely before freezing, and thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Are British baked beans healthy? What's the nutritional lowdown?

Beans are naturally a very nutritious food! They are packed with fibre and protein. Our from scratch version offers more balanced nutrition compared to many commercial options, giving you control over added sugar and salt. Like with all good things in life, enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What can I serve with British baked beans?

Baked beans are nothing if not versatile, love! They're great on toast as a quick and tasty breakfast. They also make a perfect side dish with a full English breakfast or as part of a hearty meal like bangers and mash. Some people even like them with a jacket potato or mixed into a cheesy pasta bake!