Homemade Sathers Boston Baked Beans Bag Recipe: Sweet, Smoky, and Homemade Perfection

Introduction

Sathers Boston Baked Beans Bag is a beloved snack known for its sweet and smoky flavor, with a satisfying chewy texture. The original product has a rich history, rooted in traditional Boston baked beans, which have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries. These beans are typically made with navy beans cooked in a tomato-based sauce with added sugars and spices, creating a flavor profile that's both tangy and sweet. The store-bought version offers convenience, but making them at home allows for customization, better nutritional control, and a fresher taste. This homemade recipe captures the essence of the original while offering a healthier and customizable alternative.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:60 minutes
• **Total Time:80 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings

Ingredients

For the Beans:

• 1 cup (180g) dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 4 cups (960ml) water
• 1 tsp (5g) salt

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup (60g) ketchup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar
• 1 tbsp (15g) molasses
• 2 tbsp (30ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tbsp (30g) cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp (30ml) water (optional)

Instructions

• Cook the Beans:

• Rinse the soaked navy beans and place them in a large pot with 4 cups of water and 1 tsp of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until tender, about 45-50 minutes. Drain and set aside.

• Prepare the Glaze:

• In a saucepan, combine ketchup, water, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until smooth.

• Thicken the Glaze (Optional):

• If a thicker glaze is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes until thickened.

• Coat the Beans:

• In a large bowl, toss the cooked beans with the glaze until evenly coated.

• Dry the Beans:

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the coated beans in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until the glaze is set and the beans are slightly dried.

• Cool and Serve:

• Let the beans cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use half the brown sugar and molasses.
• Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños in the glaze.
• Smoky Version: Increase smoked paprika or add a splash of liquid smoke.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips

• For a deeper flavor, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari in the glaze.
• Bake beans on a wire rack over a baking sheet for better air circulation.
• Experiment with different spices like ground mustard or coriander for unique twists.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh beans? No, dried navy beans are best for this recipe.
• Too sweet? Reduce sugar or omit molasses.
• Too salty? Use low-sodium ingredients.
• Scale up? Double or triple the recipe as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a snack, side dish, or add to salads and sandwiches.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Sathers Boston Baked Beans offers a delicious, healthier alternative with customizable flavors. Perfect for snacking or as a side, it captures the classic taste with a fresh, homemade touch. Share your creations and enjoy the satisfaction of making it yourself!