Homemade Pork and Beans: A Hearty One-Pot Wonder

Homemade Pork and Beans: A Hearty One-Pot Wonder

Key Info:

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 3.5 hours

Servings: 6-8

Difficulty: Moderate

Dietary Tags: High Protein, Gluten-Optional

Equipment Needed:

• Large Dutch oven
• Heavy skillet
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife

Ingredients:

Beans:

• 1 pound dried navy beans (or 3 cans pre-cooked)
• 4 cups water

Pork Base:

• 1/2 pound pork shoulder, cubed
• 1/4 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced

Flavor Boosters:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
• 2 bay leaves

Sauce Components:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Method:

1. Prepare Beans: If using dried beans, soak overnight. Drain and rinse thoroughly.



2. Brown Meat: In a hot skillet, render bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, brown pork shoulder cubes until golden.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onions to meat, cooking until translucent and slightly caramelized.



4. Combine Ingredients: Transfer meat and onions to Dutch oven. Add beans, spices, and sauce ingredients.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and bake at 325°F for 2.5-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Final Touch: Uncover for last 30 minutes to thicken sauce.

Crucial Tips:

• Avoid adding acidic ingredients before beans are tender
• Stir occasionally to prevent bottom burning
• Adjust liquid if sauce becomes too thick

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Up to 5 days
• Freeze: Up to 3 months
• Reheat: Low and slow, adding splash of water

Variations:

• Smoky Version: Add liquid smoke
• Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne
• Vegetarian: Replace pork with mushrooms

Pro Tips:

• Use dried beans for deeper flavor
• Layer flavors by using both bacon and pork shoulder
• Don’t rush the cooking process

Nutritional Spotlight:

• High protein
• Rich in fiber
• Hearty winter comfort food

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overcrowding the pan
• Skipping meat browning step
• Using too much liquid

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect with cornbread
• Great campfire or potluck dish
• Excellent summer barbecue side

Cultural Notes:

Inspired by traditional Southern and New England cooking styles, this pork and beans recipe bridges rustic homestead cooking with modern kitchen convenience.