Yankee Beans is a classic New England-style baked bean dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Slow-cooked with molasses, brown sugar, and mustard, these beans are sweet, savory, and rich with a deep caramelized flavor. The addition of bacon or salt pork adds a smoky depth, while a hint of onion gives them extra warmth. Yankee Beans are traditionally made with navy beans and baked until they become tender and infused with all the rich flavors of the sauce. This dish is perfect served alongside grilled meats, hot dogs, or cornbread, making it a comforting and satisfying side for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb dried navy beans (or Great Northern beans)
- 6 oz bacon or salt pork, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups water (or enough to cover the beans)
Instructions:
- Soak the Beans:
- Rinse the dried beans and place them in a large bowl. Cover with water and soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cook the Bacon and Onion:
- In a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Beans:
- Add the soaked beans to the pot with the cooked onions. Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about an inch.
- Bake the Beans:
- Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for 4-5 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans from drying out.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the beans are fully cooked and tender, stir in the reserved crispy bacon. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve warm.
Yankee Beans are a comforting and traditional dish with a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smoky flavor. Whether served at a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner, these slow-baked beans will always be a hit.
