Savor The Unique Twist Of Delicious Root Beer Baked Beans

Experience the delicious twist of these Root Beer Baked Beans. The combination of root beer, crispy bacon, and a blend of rich spices creates a uniquely flavorful side dish. Perfect for barbecues and family gatherings, these beans are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried navy beans – These small, white beans are perfect for baking and absorb flavors wonderfully.
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth, or water – Provides the necessary liquid for cooking the beans. Extra may be needed if the mixture becomes too thick.
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked to a crisp and chopped – Adds a smoky, savory flavor to the beans.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (around 3/4 cup) – Provides a base flavor and adds a slight sweetness when cooked.
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced – Adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and some crunch to the beans.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup quality root beer – The secret ingredient that adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1/3 cup ketchup – Adds a tangy tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce – Enhances the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in the dish.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup – Adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the root beer and bacon.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Provides additional sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons molasses – Adds a deep, rich sweetness and color to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Adds a bit of tang and complexity to the flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the umami flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt – Seasons the beans and enhances all the other flavors.
• 3/4 teaspoon chili powder – Adds a slight kick and warmth to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and complexity.

Instructions

1. Soak the Beans: Rinse and sort the navy beans, then place them in a large pot or bowl. Cover the beans with water, ensuring it’s about 3 inches above the beans. Soak overnight, then drain. Alternatively, if short on time, place the beans in a pot, cover with several inches of water, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let soak for 1 hour, then drain.
2. Cook the Beans: In a large, oven-safe pot, add the soaked and drained beans with 6 cups of broth or water. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 1 hour.
3. Prepare the Bacon: In a separate pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon, leaving the fat in the pan, and set the bacon aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic in the bacon fat until softened and starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
5. Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the root beer, ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, maple syrup, molasses, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Set aside.
6. Combine Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In the large pot, combine the simmered beans and their liquid, the sautéed onion mixture, the chopped bacon, and the prepared sauce. Stir everything together well.
7. Bake the Beans: Cover the pot with an oven-safe lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven, stir, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F, and bake uncovered for another hour. Finally, replace the lid, reduce the oven temperature to 250°F, and bake for an additional 2 hours or until the beans are tender. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, and add extra broth or water if the mixture becomes too thick.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Root Beer Baked Beans warm and enjoy!

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