British Baked Beans
British baked beans are a comfort food classic that warms not only the stomach but also the heart. This humble dish, often served on toast, is a staple at breakfast tables across the UK. With a rich tomato sauce and the creamy texture of cannellini beans, it’s a delightful mix of flavors that can brighten up any meal of the day. This recipe for British baked beans is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a cozy dish to share with family and friends.
Why It Deserves a Spot
British baked beans deserve a spot in your kitchen for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and they pair wonderfully with toast, baked potatoes, or even as a side dish for barbecues. Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. Plus, they can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer them sweet and smoky or rich and savory.
Ingredients at a Glance
To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, finely minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- A pinch of dried thyme (optional)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 100g pureed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 400g cooked cannellini beans
- Sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste
Essential Tools for Success
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Chopping board: For easily preparing your vegetables.
- Chef’s knife: A good knife makes all the difference in chopping.
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing and simmering the beans.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring your mixture.
- Measuring spoons: For accuracy in your ingredients.
British Baked Beans Cooking Guide
With your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your British baked beans.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely minced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Flavorings
Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Mix well to combine. The tomato paste will add depth, while the maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors. If you’re using dried thyme, add a pinch at this stage, along with the 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika.
Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Pour in 100g of pureed tomatoes or tomato passata, stirring everything together. The base of your sauce is coming together beautifully!
Step 4: Mix in the Beans
Add the 400g of cooked cannellini beans to the skillet. Gently stir to coat the beans in the sauce, making sure they are well mixed. If you choose to use vegan Worcestershire sauce, add it now for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Simmer and Season
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes on low heat. This will give the flavors time to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally and season with sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your British baked beans are thickened and flavorful, it’s time to serve! They are perfect on toast, alongside a hearty breakfast, or even as a side to a savory dish like Pan Fried Potatoes.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to customize your baked beans, consider these swaps:
- Beans: Swap cannellini beans for navy beans or black beans.
- Maple syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used if you prefer.
- Tomato paste: Substitute with a few extra tablespoons of pureed tomatoes.
- Paprika: Use regular paprika or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
Problems & Prevention
While cooking British baked beans is straightforward, here are some common issues and how to prevent them:
- Too watery: If your beans are too runny, let them simmer uncovered longer to thicken.
- Bitter taste: If the sauce turns bitter, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Overcooked beans: Gently stir the beans to avoid mashing them; they should be tender but intact.
- Burnt garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic and lower the heat if necessary; burnt garlic can ruin the dish.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
British baked beans are excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the freezer for future meals. Here are some tips:
- Let the baked beans cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Beans can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Common Qs About British Baked Beans
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans! However, they will require soaking and cooking beforehand, which adds extra time to your preparation.
What dishes pair well with British baked beans?
They pair perfectly with toast, sausages, grilled tomatoes, and even as a topping for baked potatoes. For a tasty variation, try them alongside The Best Cornbread Muffins Recipe for a delightful brunch!
How long will they last in the fridge?
In the refrigerator, leftover British baked beans will last for about 3-5 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Can I make them spicy?
Absolutely! You can add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for a spicy kick.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some other delightful options to try:
- Mexican Bean Dip – A creamy and flavorful dip perfect for any gathering.
- The Best Cornbread Muffins Recipe – A sweet and savory muffin that pairs beautifully with beans.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you have mastered the art of British baked beans, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table and share this delightful dish. Whether served on toast, as a side, or enjoyed straight from the pan, these beans are sure to satisfy your cravings. They are not only a taste of British comfort food but also a canvas for your culinary creativity. Make this recipe your own, and enjoy every delightful bite.
British Baked Beans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely minced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Mix well to combine. The tomato paste will add depth, while the maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors. If you’re using dried thyme, add a pinch at this stage, along with the 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika.
- Pour in 100g of pureed tomatoes or tomato passata, stirring everything together. The base of your sauce is coming together beautifully!
- Add the 400g of cooked cannellini beans to the skillet. Gently stir to coat the beans in the sauce, making sure they are well mixed. If you choose to use vegan Worcestershire sauce, add it now for an extra layer of flavor.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes on low heat. This will give the flavors time to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally and season with sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper to taste.
- Once your British baked beans are thickened and flavorful, it’s time to serve! They are perfect on toast, alongside a hearty breakfast, or even as a side to a savory dish.
Notes
- Let the baked beans cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers for freezing.
- Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Beans can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
