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Homemade canned beans in jars, better than store-bought Bush's baked beans.

Better Than Bush's Baked Beans

A delightful homemade recipe for baked beans that are healthier and customizable, perfect for preserving.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
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.