Western-Style Baked Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups dried white beans
• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped

Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus overnight soaking time for beans)

Cooking Time: 2 hours (including soaking time)

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Soak the beans in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
3. In a large pot, boil the beans for 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. In a baking dish, combine the cooked beans with the remaining ingredients except the bacon. Mix well.
5. Top the bean mixture with the chopped bacon.
6. Cover the dish and bake for 1 hour, then stir the beans.
7. Continue baking, uncovered, for another hour or until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened.
8. Serve warm.

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

• Calories: approximately 400 calories per serving (depending on the exact ingredients used)
• Carbohydrates: from beans and sugar
• Fat: from bacon and small amounts of oil used for cooking
• Protein: from beans and bacon

Dish Characteristics:

• This dish is a classic American-style baked beans recipe, rich in flavor and texture.
• The combination of sweet and savory ingredients creates a unique taste experience.
• The dish is hearty and filling, making it a great side dish for meat-based main courses.

User Comments:

• "This is a great recipe! The beans were tender and the flavor was perfect."
• "I love the combination of sweet and salty flavors in this dish."
• "This is a great side dish for a family meal. The bacon adds a nice savory touch."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Soaking the beans overnight is essential for cooking them properly. Make sure to plan ahead.
• Use fresh ingredients for best results, especially bacon and fresh herbs if possible.
• Adjust the seasoning according to personal taste preferences, adding more sugar, vinegar, or seasoning if desired.