Pantry Hits: Soaked, Canned & Baked Beans

From overnight soak to smoky, sweet, spicy baked perfection—these beans are your kitchen’s chart-toppers.

Track 01 – Overnight Soaked Beans
The slow-burn intro that sets the stage for creamy perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dry beans (any variety: navy, black, pinto, kidney, etc.)

• Water for soaking

Instructions:

1. Rinse beans thoroughly, picking out any debris or damaged beans.

2. Place beans in a large bowl or pot and cover with 3–4 inches of water.

3. Let soak overnight (8–12 hours).

4. Drain and rinse beans before cooking or canning.
   
   

Tips from the Back of the Record:

• Soaking reduces cook time, improves digestibility, and gives a creamier texture.

• Don’t toss the soaking water—use it to water plants, but not for cooking (it can contain some anti-nutrients).
  
  

Track 02 – TWB Baked Beans
Sweet, smoky, spicy, and unapologetically bold—your pantry hits come alive.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups soaked 16-bean mix (from Track 01 Beans)

• 1 cup soaked dark red kidney beans

• 2 cups tomato sauce

• 2–3 tbsp molasses

• 2–3 tbsp brown sugar

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp mustard powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Optional: dash of hot sauce, 1–2 habaneros, or 1–2 tsp liquid smoke
  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: 325°F for a cozy bake.

2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine tomato sauce, molasses, brown sugar, garlic, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Add hot sauce or habaneros if you want heat, or a splash of liquid smoke for depth.

3. Combine Beans & Sauce: Add soaked beans (drained) to the sauce mixture and stir to coat evenly.

4. Bake: Transfer to an oven-safe casserole or Dutch oven. Cover with foil or a lid and bake 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and sauce thickened.

5. Optional Smoker Step: For a smoky twist, smoke the beans in a smoker at low heat for 1–2 hours before or after baking.
   
   

Tips from the Back of the Record:

• Sweet and savory balance is key—taste midway and adjust molasses or brown sugar if you like it sweeter.

• Spicy kicks hit differently for everyone; start small with habanero and add more if you dare.

• These beans freeze beautifully or can be canned using a pressure canner if you want long-term hits.

• Pair with cornbread, roasted meats, or enjoy solo like a chart-topping comfort classic.

Track 03 – Pressure Canned Beans
Turn your soaked beans into pantry hits that last all year.

Ingredients:

• Soaked beans from Track 01

• 1 tsp salt per quart (optional)

• Water to cover

Instructions:

1. Prep Jars: Sterilize quart jars, lids, and rings in boiling water for 10 minutes.

2. Pack the Beans: Place beans into jars, leaving 1 inch headspace. Add 1 tsp salt per quart if desired.

3. Add Water: Pour boiling water over beans, covering them completely while maintaining 1 inch of headspace.

4. Seal: Wipe jar rims clean. Place lids and rings fingertip-tight.

5. Pressure Can: Process in a pressure canner at 10–11 psi (adjust for altitude) for 25 minutes for pints, 30 minutes for quarts.

6. Cool & Store: Carefully remove jars, let cool 12–24 hours, and check seals. Store in a cool, dark place.
   
   

Tips from the Back of the Record:

• Don’t try to “water-bath” these beans—pressure canning is the safe way for low-acid foods.

• For extra flavor, add a clove of garlic or a bay leaf to each jar, but skip beans you plan to puree for soups.

• These pantry hits are perfect for quick meals: chili, soups, bean salads, or just a simple side with butter and herbs.

Suggestions for Using the Beans:

• Soups & Stews: Toss canned beans into vegetable or meat-based soups for instant protein and heartiness.

• Salads & Bowls: Mix cooled beans into grain bowls, salads, or bean salads for meal-prep magic.

• Side Dishes: Serve baked beans alongside cornbread, roasted meats, or veggies for a classic comfort combo.

• Taco or Burrito Fillings: Use seasoned beans as a base or layer in tacos, enchiladas, or burritos.

• Smash & Spread: Mash baked beans for a quick bean dip or sandwich spread.

Optional Twist:

• Add roasted vegetables, bacon, or sausage to baked beans for a richer flavor profile.

• Spice it up with extra hot sauce, smoked paprika, or chipotle for a bold twist on classic beans.

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