Classic Baked Beans

Ingredients

Dried navy beans

2 cups

Water

5 cups (for cooking) + extra for soaking

Onion

1 medium, diced

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Brown sugar

1/2 cup

Molasses

1/4 cup

Ketchup

1/2 cup

Yellow mustard

2 tablespoons

Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons

Salt

1 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

1. Rinse the dried navy beans thoroughly and soak them in water overnight to soften.
2. Drain the soaked beans and rinse them again under cold water.
3. In a large pot, combine the beans, diced onion, minced garlic, molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and 5 cups of water.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Transfer the cooked beans and sauce to a baking dish, ensuring they are well mixed.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the sauce thickens and caramelizes slightly on top.
8. Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course, ideally paired with crusty bread.