baked beans
Description
Baked beans is a dish in itself. Made traditionally with dried beans like haricot beans, it is a favourite in USA and UK. Other beans that can be used as an alternative are kidney beans, black beans, white beans, navy beans etc. They are easy to make and with variations, they can be made more flavourful and interesting. However, do note that in UK, baked beans refer to canned beans in a tomato sauce.
It is readily available in canned form worldwide but can be made easily at home. To make baked beans at home, follow this easy recipe:
Clean the beans and remove dirt, grime, stones etc if any. Soak in enough water overnight. Pressure cook with enough water for 4 to 5 whistles or till tender. Cook with butter, onions, garlic, tomatoes and aromatic herbs for a basic recipe.
How to select
If purchasing canned, ensure that you check the brand and packaging for manufacturing and expiry date. Do not purchase if the cans are puffed. If made at home, ensure you use good quality beans which are free from stones, grime and dirt.
Culinary Uses
· Use as a topping on open sandwiches with grated cheese, herbs or on toast or just like that.
· Baked beans go very well as fillings in grilled sandwiches, sausages, stuffed pizzas etc.
· Baked beans are traditionally cooked with salt pork and sweetened with maple syrup.
· Baked beans are a regional hit in the Brazilian Feijoada. It is made with onions, garlic, peppers, roasted cumin powder, coriander and pepper. Finish with orange juice and sherry.
· Southern baked beans served at barbecues across the United States is made with molasses, brown sugar, mustard and tomatoes.
· Try combining baked beans with balsamic vinegar, corn, salsa for variations.
· Use baked bean as base for Baked bean soups, pasta and bean soup etc.
· Crush baked beans, mix with herbs, potatoes and breadcrumbs and make patties to make bean burgers.
· Curried beans go well as an accompaniment with main course.
· They go as a traditional filling in Mexican quesadillas.
How to store
Store canned beans under refrigerated conditions. Once opened, transfer to a bowl and cover with cling film.
Health Benefits
· Since beans are high in protein, baked beans can be an excellent source of nutrition, especially for vegetarians.
· It is also a moderate source of iron, Vitamin B, folic acid and fiber.
· They are low in fat and doesn't contain cholesterol