Introduction
BBQ beans are a classic side dish that goes great with any barbecue meal. They are sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor. Making homemade BBQ beans may seem intimidating, but it is actually quite easy with the right ingredients and techniques. In this article, we will walk you through the entire process of making authentic, restaurant-quality BBQ beans at home. From soaking the beans to adding the perfect blend of spices, we’ve got you covered on how to make this delicious barbecue staple.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound dried navy beans or pinto beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Soak the Beans
- The night before cooking, place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water by 2-3 inches. Soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours. The beans will double in size as they soak.
Drain and Rinse the Beans
- Drain the soaked beans and rinse them thoroughly. Pick out any beans or debris that float to the top while rinsing.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion and garlic in a little oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the Beans and Cover with Water
- Add the rinsed beans and enough water to cover them by 1-2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the beans are tender but not bursting.
Make the Sauce
- While the beans are cooking, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chipotle pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
Drain the Excess Liquid and Add the Sauce
- Once the beans are tender, drain off most of the excess liquid from the pot. Leave about 1/2 cup in the bottom. Stir in the sauce and let it come to a simmer.
Simmer and Season
- Allow the beans to simmer in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and reduced. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
Finish with Bacon (Optional)
- Stir in the crumbled cooked bacon just before serving for extra flavor and crunch.
Keep Warm
- Keep the BBQ beans warm in a slow cooker or on very low heat until ready to serve.
And that’s it! With these simple steps, you’ll have tender beans coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy barbecue sauce. These homemade BBQ beans are great alongside burgers, ribs, pulled pork, or any other summer grill favorites. Adjust the spices to your liking and make this an instant family favorite.
FAQs About Making BBQ Beans
What kind of beans work best for BBQ beans?
Navy beans and pinto beans are the most commonly used for BBQ beans. They hold their shape well and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Kidney beans, black beans, or a mix can also be used. Avoid red beans as they tend to get mushy.
How long should I soak the beans?
Most beans need to soak for 8-12 hours before cooking. This helps them become tender and cook more evenly. Be sure to rinse the beans well after soaking.
Do I need to use a smoker or add liquid smoke for flavor?
You don’t need special equipment to make authentic BBQ beans! Using smoked paprika and a minced chipotle pepper gives great smoky flavor without a smoker.
Can I cook the beans in a slow cooker instead?
Yes, BBQ beans can absolutely be made in a slow cooker. After soaking, simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 7-8 hours, until the beans are tender.
How long do leftovers last?
Properly stored, leftover BBQ beans will keep for 4-5 days in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving again. They can also be frozen for 2-3 months.
What meats pair best with BBQ beans?
These smoky, sweet beans go great with classic barbecue like pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked sausages, ribs, and grilled chicken. They add flavor to any cookout menu.
Conclusion
Making your own BBQ beans at home is easy and rewarding. The key steps are soaking the beans beforehand, cooking them until tender, and then letting them simmer in a flavorful homemade barbecue-style sauce. Adjust the spices to your preference and add crispy bacon for the perfect potluck or backyard barbecue side. With this easy recipe, you can skip the canned beans and enjoy tender, tangy, and savory BBQ beans any night of the week.