Prep
10 min
Cook
1 hr 50 min
Total
2 hr
Servings
16

Method

  1. Place bacon in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Saute, turning occasionally, until slightly crispy, for about 5 to 6 minutes.

  2. Drain bacon slices on paper towels and set aside. Reserve 3 tablespoons of bacon grease and discard the rest.

  3. Add a 1/4 cup of water to the pan and bring it to a boil. Scrape up all the browned bits until the water has evaporated.

  4. Add the reserved bacon grease and the green onions to the pan. Saute until the green onions are softened, for about 3 to 4 minutes.

  5. Stir in brown sugar, adding about 1/4 cup at a time. Cook until the sugar begins to brown, for about 5 minutes.

  6. Stir in chili sauce and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

  7. Pour in the pork and beans, kidney beans, and lima beans. Stir until the beans are well coated in the sauce.

  8. Return the bacon to the pot and stir well to combine.

  9. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the flavors combine, for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

About this recipe

Are you ready to discover the secret to making the best darn beans ever? Well, you're in luck because I'm about to spill the beans (pun intended!). In this article, I'll share with you my tried and true method for creating a mouthwatering pot of beans that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Why are these beans the best?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's talk about why these beans are so darn good. Imagine a pot of beans that are perfectly seasoned, tender, and bursting with flavor. They're not too soupy, not too dry, but just right. Every bite is a delightful explosion of taste and texture. It's like a symphony in your mouth, with each ingredient playing its part to create a harmonious dish that will leave you craving more.

The secret ingredient

Now, you may be wondering what makes these beans so special. Well, the secret lies in the seasoning. While some recipes call for a laundry list of spices, I believe in keeping things simple. That's why I rely on one key ingredient to elevate the flavor of these beans to new heights - love. Yes, you heard me right. Love is the secret ingredient that takes this dish from good to great. When you cook with love, every bite becomes a celebration of the senses.

The cooking process

So, how do you make these beans? It all starts with a good soak. Before cooking, be sure to soak your beans overnight. This will help soften them up and reduce cooking time. Then, drain and rinse the beans before adding them to a pot with fresh water. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the beans simmer until tender.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

While canned beans are convenient, I highly recommend using dried beans for this recipe. Dried beans have a better texture and absorb flavors more effectively. Plus, cooking dried beans from scratch allows you to control the seasoning and overall taste of the dish.

. How long should I soak the beans?

I recommend soaking the beans overnight, or for at least 8 hours. This will ensure that they are properly hydrated and cook evenly.

. Can I add meat to the beans?

Absolutely! Adding meat, such as bacon or ham, can add an extra layer of flavor to the beans. Simply cook the meat before adding the beans to the pot and let them simmer together for a deliciously savory dish.

. How do I season the beans?

Seasoning is key to making these beans taste amazing. I suggest using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic, and a bay leaf. Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs to suit your taste buds.

. Can I make these beans in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can certainly make these beans in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps of soaking the beans and then add them, along with the seasoning and water, to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.

. Can I freeze the beans?

Absolutely! These beans freeze beautifully. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat whenever you're in the mood for a comforting bowl of goodness.

. What can I serve with these beans?

These beans are incredibly versatile and can be served as a main dish or as a side. They pair well with cornbread, rice, or even a fresh salad. The options are endless!

. How long do these beans last in the fridge?

These beans can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

In conclusion, these beans are truly the best darn beans you'll ever taste. With their perfect seasoning, tender texture, and incredible flavor, they're sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, go ahead and give them a try. I promise you won't be disappointed!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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