Maple And Ginger Baked Beans

Maple and Ginger Baked Beans are a sweet and savory twist on the traditional baked beans recipe, perfect for adding a bit of warmth and comfort to any meal. The rich flavor of maple syrup is balanced by the slight spiciness of fresh ginger, creating a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender, slow-cooked beans. This dish makes an excellent side for barbecues, potlucks, or cozy dinners, offering a delicious blend of sweetness, spice, and hearty goodness.

Maple and Ginger Baked Beans Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried navy beans (or 4 cups cooked beans)
• 4 cups water
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 4 strips bacon, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak the beans: Place the dried navy beans in a large bowl, cover them with water, and let them soak overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.
2. Cook the beans: Add the soaked beans to a large pot with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon (if using) until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, garlic, and fresh ginger until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the maple syrup, molasses, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. Add the sautéed onion mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Bake the beans: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large baking dish or Dutch oven, mix the cooked beans with the sauce. Stir in the crispy bacon (if using) for added flavor. Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Finish and serve: Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve warm as a side dish or main course.

These maple and ginger baked beans are perfect for gatherings or as a hearty accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods!