Kansas Baked Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 pounds dried navy beans, picked over and rinsed
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (1 cup)
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)
• 1 large carrot, chopped (1 cup)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 pound smoked ham hock
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Preparation Time:

1 hour

Cooking Time:

8-10 hours

Difficulty Level:

2 (simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour.
2. Drain the beans and return them to the pot. Add the onion, bell pepper, carrot, salt, and ham hock. Add enough water to cover the beans by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add the tomatoes, ketchup, brown sugar, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours more, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove the ham hock from the pot and discard the bone. Serve the beans hot.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 230
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Rich and flavorful
• Tender and succulent beans
• Sweet and tangy sauce
• Perfect for a casual gathering or a special occasion

User Comments:

• "These beans were a hit at my last party. Everyone loved the smoky flavor."
• "I've made this recipe several times and it's always a crowd-pleaser."
• "The beans were cooked perfectly and the sauce was incredible. Will definitely make again."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have a ham hock, you can substitute with a ham bone.
• To make the beans ahead of time, cook them according to the directions and then let them cool completely. Store the beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, reheat the beans over low heat until warmed through.
• For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño to the recipe.