Home Canned Better Than Bush’s Baked Beans

Home Canned Better Than Bush’s Baked Beans is a delightful recipe that combines flavor and convenience. By making your own baked beans at home, you not only control the ingredients but also enjoy a taste that can be even better than store-bought options.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own baked beans allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. This recipe is healthier than store-bought options, as you can use fewer preservatives and adjust the sweetness as needed. Canning at home also offers the satisfaction of preserving your food, which can save you money and reduce waste.

How to Make Home Canned Better Than Bush’s Baked Beans

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried navy beans
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 pound bacon, chopped (optional)
• Smoked paprika to taste

Directions:

1. Soak the navy beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse.
2. In a large pot, combine the beans, onion, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, salt, black pepper, and water.
3. If using, add the chopped bacon to the mixture.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until beans are tender.
5. Once cooked, transfer to sterilized jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace.
6. Process in a boiling water bath for 75 minutes.
7. Let the jars cool, then store them in a cool, dark place.

How to Serve Home Canned Better Than Bush’s Baked Beans

Serve these delicious baked beans hot as a side dish with meals. They go well with BBQ, grilled meats, or as part of a hearty breakfast. You can also enjoy them straight from the jar or serve them over toast for a simple yet satisfying snack.

How to Store Home Canned Better Than Bush’s Baked Beans

Keep the sealed jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. If opened, store the beans in the refrigerator and consume them within a week. Make sure to check seals regularly to ensure your canned goods stay safe.

Tips to Make Home Canned Better Than Bush’s Baked Beans

• Always soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly.
• Taste the mixture before canning; adjust the sweetness or seasoning if needed.
• For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking.

Variation

You can add different ingredients based on your taste preference. Consider mixing in diced bell peppers, chili powder for a spicy kick, or use different types of beans for a unique texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of bean?
A: Yes, you can use other beans like pinto or black beans, but the cooking time may vary.

Q: Do I need to use bacon?
A: Bacon is optional. You can make a vegetarian version by leaving it out.

Q: Can I freeze baked beans instead of canning?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked beans. Just let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Better Than Bush's Baked Beans

A delightful homemade recipe for baked beans that are healthier and customizable, perfect for preserving.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Preserving, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Homemade

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups dried navy beans Soak overnight
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 pound bacon, chopped (optional) Optional for flavor
• to taste Smoked paprika

Method

 

Preparation

1. Soak the navy beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse.
2. In a large pot, combine the beans, onion, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, salt, black pepper, and water.
3. If using, add the chopped bacon to the mixture.

Cooking

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until beans are tender.
2. Once cooked, transfer to sterilized jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace.
3. Process in a boiling water bath for 75 minutes.
4. Let the jars cool, then store them in a cool, dark place.

Notes

Always soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly. Taste the mixture before canning and adjust the sweetness or seasoning if needed. For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking.