How to Make British Baked Beans: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe


How to Make British Baked Beans: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

British baked beans are a beloved staple of the traditional English breakfast and a go-to comfort food throughout the UK. Unlike their American counterparts, British baked beans are less sweet, more tomato-forward, and typically served warm on toast or alongside sausages, eggs, and bacon. While canned varieties like Heinz are popular, making baked beans from scratch brings a rich, homemade flavor that’s worth the effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make authentic British baked beans at home.

Ingredients

For the Beans:

  • 2 cups dried navy beans (or haricot beans)
  • Water (for soaking and boiling)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

For the Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato purée
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or golden syrup
  • 1 teaspoon English mustard (or Dijon)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or malt vinegar)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

  1. Soak the beans overnight in cold water. This softens them and reduces cooking time.
  2. The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then place them in a pot with fresh water. Add a bay leaf if desired.
  3. Boil for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

Tip: You can use canned white beans for a quicker version—just skip the soaking and boiling steps.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, and stock. Stir well to combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Beans

  1. Add the cooked beans to the tomato sauce.
  2. Simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
  3. Adjust seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or stock.

Serving Suggestions

British baked beans are best served hot and fresh. Here are a few classic ways to enjoy them:

  • On buttered toast – the iconic "beans on toast"
  • With full English breakfast (eggs, sausage, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast)
  • As a side with jacket potatoes
  • Alongside grilled meats or fish

Storage Tips

Store leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They also freeze well—just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Homemade British baked beans are hearty, flavorful, and full of nostalgia. They offer a healthier and more delicious alternative to store-bought versions and can be tailored to your taste. Once you’ve tried them from scratch, you may never go back to canned again. Happy cooking!

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