Instant Pot Baked Beans Recipe

Cook Time: 70 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 cups water
• 1 pound dry navy beans, rinsed and picked through
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 ounces salt pork, diced
• 6 ounces bacon, cut into small pieces
• 1 small onion, minced
• 1 cups water, divided
• cup molasses
• cup ketchup
• cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Directions:

1. Combine 8 cups of water and the dry navy beans in a pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot). Close and lock the lid, then select high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Set the timer for 15 minutes and allow 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build.
2. Once the cooking time is complete, release the pressure using the natural-release method for about 20 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Unlock the lid and remove it. Drain and rinse the beans with cold water, then set them aside.
3. Rinse the Instant Pot insert and wipe it dry before placing it back into the pressure cooker. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Saut function. Heat olive oil until shimmering, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add the diced salt pork, bacon, and minced onion to the pot. Cook until the fat begins to render, about 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Pour in cup of water and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Turn the Instant Pot off to stop the sauting process.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and the remaining 1 cup of water. Stir well to combine.
7. Return the drained and rinsed beans to the pot along with the ketchup mixture. Gently stir everything together to combine evenly.
8. Close and lock the lid again. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions, and set the timer for 35 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
9. After the cooking time is complete, release the pressure using the natural-release method for about 20 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Unlock the lid and remove it.
10. The beans will thicken as they cool. Serve immediately, or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Recipe Tips:

• The salt content of salt pork can vary, so be sure to taste the beans before serving and adjust the salt as needed.
• If you're using older beans, they might take a little longer to cook. You may need to add an extra 5 to 10 minutes of cook time if the beans remain firm after the initial cooking cycle.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	321
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	17mg
Sodium	392mg
Total Carbohydrates	36g
Dietary Fiber	9g
Total Sugars	12g
Protein	11g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	88mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	655mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data for all ingredients. If following a medically restricted diet, please consult your doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Recipe by: France Cevallos

History of Instant Pot Baked Beans

Baked beans have been a staple of North American cuisine for centuries. The traditional recipe involves slow-cooking beans in a rich, savory sauce made with molasses, bacon, and mustard. The origins of baked beans can be traced back to the Native American tribes who used beans in a variety of dishes. European settlers adopted and adapted the recipe, adding pork and other ingredients like molasses, which was a common sweetener in early American cooking. In modern times, the Instant Pot has transformed this classic dish into a quicker, more convenient version while still maintaining its hearty flavors.

Regional Variations

While baked beans are widely popular across North America, they have regional variations. In the Southern United States, the dish is often made with a blend of molasses, brown sugar, and mustard, offering a sweet and tangy flavor profile. In contrast, French Canadian baked beans, known as haricots la mode de chez nous, include maple syrup, a nod to the region's abundant maple forests. In New England, beans are typically slow-cooked with salt pork, providing a savory and rich taste. This Instant Pot recipe blends these regional influences into one pot, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

How Instant Pot Baked Beans Differ from Other Bean Dishes

What sets Instant Pot baked beans apart from other bean dishes is the unique combination of ingredients and the cooking method. Unlike standard bean recipes that require an overnight soak or slow cooking over several hours, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time. This recipe uses a pressure cooking method to infuse beans with a rich, smoky flavor from bacon and salt pork, while also keeping the beans tender and soft. The molasses, ketchup, and mustard sauce gives the dish its characteristic sweetness and tanginess, making it distinct from simpler baked bean recipes.

Where to Serve Instant Pot Baked Beans

Instant Pot baked beans are a perfect side dish for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive BBQs. They are commonly served with grilled meats like ribs, burgers, and hot dogs, as well as alongside traditional dishes such as coleslaw and cornbread. Their hearty, savory flavor makes them an excellent complement to both casual picnics and holiday meals. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or preparing for a winter feast, these beans will add a comforting and flavorful touch to the table.

Interesting Facts

• Baked beans are a traditional dish in many cultures and are often made with various regional ingredients like molasses, maple syrup, or brown sugar.
• The word "baked" is somewhat misleading in the context of modern recipes, as many baked beans are now made using stovetops or pressure cookers like the Instant Pot, making the dish much quicker to prepare.
• In the UK, baked beans are often served on toast, making for a quick and comforting breakfast or lunch.
• The Instant Pot has revolutionized cooking by making traditionally long-cooked dishes, like baked beans, easier and faster to prepare without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Instant Pot baked beans bring the classic comfort food into the modern kitchen, providing a quick and delicious way to enjoy a dish with deep historical roots. Whether you're preparing them for a BBQ, a family dinner, or a festive gathering, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines traditional flavors with the convenience of the Instant Pot, making it a go-to choice for anyone who loves hearty, savory dishes with a touch of sweetness.

FAQ about Instant Pot Baked Beans Recipe

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