Slow Cooker Homemade Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Dried beans (e.g., kidney beans, pinto beans) - 2 cups
2. Bacon slices - 6 slices
3. Onion - 1 large, chopped
4. Celery - 2 stalks, chopped
5. Carrot - 1 large, chopped
6. Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
7. Chicken broth or vegetable broth - 4 cups
8. Ketchup - 1/2 cup
9. Brown sugar - 1/4 cup
10. Salt and pepper - to taste

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Sort and wash the beans, removing any debris or discolored beans.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the beans with the chicken broth or vegetable broth.
3. Add the bacon slices, onion, celery, carrot, and garlic.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in the ketchup and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for another 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
7. Serve hot with desired side dishes or as a main dish with additional toppings like sour cream or chopped fresh herbs.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: Approx. 300 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
• Carbohydrates: Fiber, complex carbs from beans and vegetables
• Protein: From beans and bacon
• Fat: From bacon and brown sugar
• Potassium: Rich in potassium from beans and vegetables

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and flavorful, with a sweet and savory combination of flavors.
• Slow-cooked beans are tender and delicious, perfect for a hearty meal.
• Can be served as a side dish or as a main dish with additional toppings or side dishes.

User Comments:

1. "This is an excellent bean dish! The slow cooker makes it so easy to prepare."
2. "Love the combination of flavors in this dish. The beans are so tender and delicious."
3. "A great way to use up leftover bacon from breakfast or lunch."
4. "A healthy and hearty dish that is perfect for colder weather."
5. "I added some extra spices to give it a kick, and it was fantastic!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Soak the beans overnight before cooking to reduce cooking time and ensure tender beans.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.
• Slow cookers vary in their heat settings; adjust the cooking time accordingly based on your slow cooker's instructions.