Settlers Beans Recipe Easy and Delicious for Any Meal

Settlers Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings the warmth and simplicity of traditional pioneer cooking right to your table. This recipe is steeped in history and designed to be both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings by the fire.

Made with a blend of beans, smoky bacon, and a touch of sweet molasses, Settlers Beans combines rustic charm with rich, comforting flavors that everyone will love.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, this recipe is wonderfully straightforward and forgiving, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire. The slow simmering allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with depth and texture.

Let’s dive into the world of Settlers Beans and discover why it’s a timeless classic worth making again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Settlers Beans is more than just a side dish — it’s a comforting experience. The combination of smoky bacon, tender beans, and a touch of sweetness creates a perfect balance that pleases every palate.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile and budget-friendly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the use of wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options.

The rich aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking is just the beginning of the satisfaction you’ll get from this classic dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dry navy beans (or great northern beans), soaked overnight
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

Equipment

• Large bowl for soaking beans
• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or strainer
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: Rinse the dry navy beans under cold water. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water by at least 2 inches. Soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy and browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat and cook over medium heat until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in the molasses, brown sugar, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
5. Combine beans and broth: Add the soaked and drained beans back into the pot along with the chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Simmer the beans: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let the beans simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The beans should be tender and the sauce thickened by the end of cooking.
7. Finish and serve: Stir in the cooked bacon pieces and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper at this stage. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

Pro tip: For even creamier beans, try adding a small piece of baking soda to the soaking water. This softens the beans and reduces cooking time.

You can easily customize Settlers Beans to suit your tastes:

• Vegetarian version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
• Sweetness adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the molasses or brown sugar slightly. For a more savory profile, reduce these ingredients.
• Meat swap: Try using diced ham or smoked sausage instead of bacon for a different smoky element.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary added during simmering can enhance the flavor complexity.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Settlers Beans pairs wonderfully with a variety of hearty dishes. Serve it alongside cornbread or warm biscuits for a true pioneer meal.

It’s also a fantastic side for grilled meats like chicken, pork chops, or ribs.

For a complete meal, consider serving Settlers Beans with a fresh green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. It can also be spooned over rice or baked potatoes for a filling vegetarian main course option.

To add a bit of zest, top with fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream. The contrasts in flavor and texture make this dish a crowd-pleaser every time.

Conclusion

Settlers Beans is a timeless recipe that delivers comfort, flavor, and nutrition all in one bowl. Its rich history and simple ingredients make it a dish that’s easy to prepare yet deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

By using pantry staples and slow cooking the beans to perfection, you get a dish that’s both economical and delicious. Plus, the flexibility in ingredients and seasoning means you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

Give Settlers Beans a try and enjoy a taste of history with every bite!

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