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How to Make Smoked BBQ Beans: A Perfect Side

I. Introduction

BBQ beans, or baked beans as they’re often called, are a staple side dish that complements a wide variety of grilled meats and BBQ feasts. Their rich, sweet, and smoky flavors make them a favorite at cookouts and family gatherings.

Smoking the beans adds an exquisite depth of flavor that elevates this dish to new heights. The combination of tender beans, smoky meat, and a tangy sauce results in a mouthwatering experience that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to making your own smoked BBQ beans, ensuring that they turn out perfectly every time.

II. Ingredients

A. List of Main Ingredients

• Beans (e.g., navy beans, pinto beans)
• Smoked bacon or sausage
• Onion and garlic
• BBQ sauce
• Brown sugar
• Mustard and Worcestershire sauce

B. Optional Ingredients for Customization

• Spices (e.g., paprika, cayenne)
• Jalapeños for heat
• Apple cider vinegar for tanginess

Ingredients Overview

III. Preparation Steps

A. Prepping the Beans

1. Soaking Dried Beans Overnight (If Using)

If you choose to use dried beans, it’s essential to soak them overnight. This process helps to soften the beans, reducing cooking time and improving their texture. To soak the beans:

1. Place 2 cups of dried beans in a large bowl.
2. Cover the beans with water, ensuring there’s at least two inches of water above the beans.
3. Let the beans soak for 8-12 hours, or overnight.

2. Rinsing and Draining Canned Beans

If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them under cold water. This step removes excess sodium and helps to enhance their flavor.

B. Preparing Ingredients

1. Chopping Bacon, Onions, and Garlic

While the beans soak, prepare your other ingredients:

• Chop the smoked bacon or sausage into small pieces.
• DICE the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.

IV. Cooking Process

Now that your ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to cook the smoked BBQ beans!

A. Cooking the Bacon or Sausage

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the chopped bacon or sausage. Cook until crispy and browned, allowing the rendered fat to coat the bottom of the pan:

• Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Once cooked, remove the bacon or sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

B. Sautéing Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and cook until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant:

• Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.

C. Combining Ingredients

After the onions and garlic are cooked, it’s time to combine everything into one pot:

1. Add the soaked and drained beans (or drained canned beans) to the skillet.
2. Stir in the cooked bacon or sausage.
3. Pour in the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

Mix all the ingredients until well combined. This is where you can add any optional ingredients like spices or jalapeños for added flavor and heat.

V. Smoking the Beans

To achieve that signature smoky flavor, transfer the mixture to a smoker or grill set to low heat:

A. Preparing the Smoker or Grill

• Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C).
• Add your choice of wood chips (hickory, mesquite, or applewood work wonderfully) to the smoker box or directly on the coals.

B. Smoking the Beans

Once the smoker is preheated:

1. Transfer the bean mixture to a cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum pan.
2. Place the skillet on the smoker or grill grates.
3. Smoke the beans for about 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.

This process allows the beans to absorb the rich, smoky flavor while cooking to a soft, creamy consistency.

VI. Serving Suggestions

Your smoked BBQ beans are now ready to be served! Here are a few ideas to make the most of this delicious side dish:

• Serve alongside classic BBQ meats like ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.
• Top with shredded cheese, green onions, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
• Pair with cornbread or biscuits to soak up all the delicious sauce.

VII. Tips and Tricks

To ensure your smoked BBQ beans turn out perfect every time, consider the following tips:

• Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans such as black beans or kidney beans for unique flavors and textures.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before smoking and adjust the brown sugar to your desired sweetness level.
• Make Ahead: These beans can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

VIII. Conclusion

Smoked BBQ beans are a delicious and flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a smoky, sweet, and savory dish that complements your BBQ efforts beautifully. Whether served at a summer cookout or as a comforting side on a chilly evening, these beans will surely impress!

Try them out for your next gathering, and watch as they quickly become a favorite among your friends and family. Happy cooking!