Baked beans are a barbecue staple!
It's a comforting side dish that perfectly complements grilled meats and family gatherings. But why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your beans to extraordinary with a surprising secret ingredient: Buff Boy Brewing Co. coffee! This recipe for slow-cooker baked beans with a touch of coffee adds a depth of flavor and complexity that will have everyone asking for seconds -- even if at first they say they're full.
The slow cooker is the perfect vessel for this dish, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over several hours, resulting in tender, flavorful beans that are far superior to anything you'll find in a can. The addition of Buff coffee, rather than making the beans taste like mocha, enhances the savory notes, adding a richness and subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the molasses and brown sugar.
Here's what you'll need to create this culinary masterpiece:
1 lb. dried navy beans: These are the classic choice for baked beans, but Great Northern or even pinto beans can be substituted.
8 cups water: For soaking and cooking the beans.
1/2 lb. bacon, diced: Bacon is key for adding smoky flavor and richness. (And we all know bacon makes life better!)
1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: For aromatic punch.
1/2 cup ketchup: Provides tangy sweetness and helps thicken the sauce.
1/4 cup molasses: Adds a deep, rich sweetness that is essential for authentic baked bean flavor.
1/4 cup brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and adds a caramel-like note.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick and complexity.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness and adds a bit of acidity.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: For umami richness and depth.
1/4 cup brewed strong coffee, cooled: The secret ingredient! Use a dark roast for the most noticeable flavor enhancement.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Instructions:
Soak the Beans: Place the dried navy beans in a large bowl and cover with 8 cups of water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This step helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time. Drain the beans thoroughly before proceeding.
Cook the Bacon and Vegetables: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon grease and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: In a slow cooker, combine the drained navy beans, cooked bacon and vegetables, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce and cooled coffee. Stir well to combine.
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season and Serve: Once the beans are cooked, taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Add Some Meat: For a heartier dish, consider adding a pound of diced ham or smoked sausage along with the bacon.
Sweeten the Deal: Adjust the amount of molasses and brown sugar to suit your preference.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, while the coffee adds a unique depth that will set your beans apart. So, fire up the slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the best baked beans you've ever tasted!