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Slow-Cooked Maple Baked Beans

This dish features dried beans that are slow-cooked overnight in a crockpot with rich maple syrup and smoky spices, resulting in a tender, glossy, and thickly sauced result. The prolonged cooking melds the flavors, creating a hearty and sweet-savory bean dish with a cozy appearance.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • Dried beans 2 cups, soaked overnight: The main ingredient, providing a hearty base for the dish.
  • Maple syrup 1/2 cup, pure: Adds sweetness and depth to the beans, making them flavorful.
  • Bacon optional, 4 slices, chopped: Adds smoky richness to the dish.
  • Onion 1 medium, chopped: Adds savory depth and sweetness to the sauce.
  • Garlic 3 cloves, minced: Brings aroma and flavor to the beans.
  • Apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon: Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
  • Ground mustard 1 teaspoon: Adds a tangy, savory layer of flavor.
  • Ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a mild heat to balance the sweetness.
  • Salt to taste: Enhances the flavors and brings everything together.
  • Water or vegetable broth 3 cups: Used to cook the beans to a tender consistency.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Soak the dried beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse the beans before using them.
  2. In a slow cooker, add the soaked beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, and bacon (if using).
  3. Pour in the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, black pepper, and salt.
  4. Add the vegetable broth or water to cover the beans. Stir everything to combine.
  5. Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  6. Stir halfway through the cooking time for even cooking.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more maple syrup, salt, or pepper if needed.
  8. Once the beans are tender, remove from the slow cooker and serve immediately.