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Grandma Brown's Baked Beans Recipe: A Hearty Family Favorite

Rohini Deekonda
The unique appeal of Grandma Brown's baked beans lies in their simplicity and rich flavor profile. Instead, they rely on time-tested ingredients and slow baking to develop their signature taste.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 3

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried navy beans
  • 1 cup salt pork, cut into small pieces
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Beans
    Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water.Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water. Soak overnight or use the quick soak method: bring beans to a boil, cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let sit for 1 hour.Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
  • Cook the Beans
    Place the beans back in the pot and cover with fresh water.Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender but not mushy.Drain the beans, reserving the cooking liquid.
  • Prepare the Oven
    Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Combine Ingredients
    In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, layer the cooked beans and pieces of salt pork.Add the chopped onion.In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the beans and pork.Add enough of the reserved cooking liquid to just cover the beans.
  • Bake the Beans
    Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil.Bake in the preheated oven for 4 to 5 hours, checking occasionally and adding more cooking liquid if necessary to keep the beans moist.For the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the lid to allow the beans to develop a rich, caramelized top.
  • Serve
    Remove the baked beans from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes before serving.Enjoy your Grandma Brown's baked beans as a side dish or main course, paired with cornbread, coleslaw, or your favorite barbecue dishes.

Notes

Grandma Brown's baked beans are a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. By following this recipe, you can recreate the beloved dish at home, enjoying its rich flavors and hearty texture. Whether you're serving them at a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or a cozy dinner, these baked beans are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, take your time with the slow baking process, and savor the delicious taste of homemade Grandma Brown's baked beans.
Keyword Baked Beans Recipe, Beans Recipe, Brown's Baked Beans, Grandma Brown's Baked Beans,