BBQ Baked Beans

Baked beans are a quintessential side dish in any BBQ spread. They bring a comforting sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky, savory flavors of grilled meats. In this article, we'll explore the secrets to creating the ultimate BBQ baked beans that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Choosing the Right Beans

Start with high-quality beans as the foundation of your dish. While navy beans are the classic choice, you can also experiment with pinto, cannellini, or even black beans for a unique twist.

Recipe Ingredients

2 cups dried navy beans

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup ketchup

1/4 cup molasses

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons mustard (Dijon or yellow)

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 cups water

For the Smoky Element:

Adding a smoky flavor is key to making BBQ baked beans stand out. You have a few options:

Bacon - Fry up some bacon until it's crispy, then crumble it and add it to the mix.

Liquid Smoke - A few drops of liquid smoke can infuse your beans with that unmistakable BBQ aroma.

Smoked Paprika - This spice adds a smoky kick without the need for a smoker.

Instructions

Prepare the Beans

Rinse and sort through the dried beans. Remove any debris or stones. Soak them overnight in water, or do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit, covered, for an hour.

The Simmering Process:

In a large pot, combine the soaked beans, chopped onion, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.

Bring to a Boil:

Add 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally.

The Smoky Touch:

Add your chosen smoky element. If you're using bacon, this is the perfect time to fold in those delicious bacon bits.

Final Touches

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a bit more brown sugar for sweetness, or a touch of salt for depth.

Bake to Perfection:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the sauce has thickened and the top is nicely caramelized.

Serve and Enjoy:

Let the beans cool slightly before serving. They pair perfectly with your favorite BBQ meats and sides.

These BBQ baked beans are a labor of love that will elevate any BBQ gathering. With the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, they're bound to become a staple in your BBQ repertoire. Experiment with the recipe to make it your own, and get ready for compliments from every guest at your next cookout. Happy grilling!