Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mind-blowing Maple Bourbon Baked Beans! Imagine tender navy beans slow-cooked to perfection, infused with a rich, complex blend of sweet maple syrup and bold bourbon that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This isn't just another side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and possibly your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the dried navy beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris. Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water, allowing them to soak overnight (approximately 8-12 hours).
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again. Transfer the beans to the slow cooker.
- Dice the onion finely and add to the slow cooker with the beans.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, ketchup, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Pour the maple bourbon mixture over the beans and onions in the slow cooker, stirring to ensure even distribution.
- Add enough water to cover the beans by approximately 1-2 inches.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the maple syrup and bourbon will add additional flavor complexity.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check bean tenderness after 5 hours. If beans are not soft, continue cooking and check every 30 minutes.
- Once beans are tender and sauce has thickened, turn off slow cooker and let rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Soaking is crucial: Always soak your dried beans overnight to ensure even cooking and improved digestibility.
- Don't rush the cooking: The slow cooker is your friend here. Low and slow is the key to developing deep, rich flavors.
- Bourbon selection matters: Use a good quality bourbon that you'd enjoy drinking. The flavor will concentrate during cooking.
- Stir occasionally: Prevent beans from sticking and ensure even flavor distribution by giving them a gentle stir every couple of hours.
- Adjust liquid as needed: If beans look dry during cooking, add a little hot water to maintain moisture.
- Let it rest: Allowing the beans to sit for 15-20 minutes after cooking helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld together.
- Make ahead friendly: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
