There is nothing more vital to my store cupboard than a can of baked beans! The versatility of a can of baked beans is just unbelievable and the fact that they count as one of your 5 a day makes it all much better!
Baked beans are high in fibre and provide a great choice for a plant based protein…we all love meat but a day off every now and then is a good thing!
A can of baked beans can give you the ability to knock up a range of quick, cheap meals, some of which literally cost pennies…
This page is dedicated to everything Baked Beans…and getting the most from this humble ingredient! These recipes are classic home cooked food designed with a small budget in mind.
Come back for your next weekday dinner idea!
Check out more budget Baked Bean recipes here!
Are Baked beans a good source of fibre…
Yes, baked beans are an excellent source of fibre. They are rich in soluble fibre promoting digestive health and providing a feeling of fullness. One can of baked beans typically contains around 10 to 15 grams of fibre, contributing significantly to the recommended daily intake. This dietary fibre aids in regulating blood sugar levels, lowering cholesterol, and preventing constipation.
Baked beans will provide you B Vitamins and minerals, protein, and will provide you one of your portions of fruit and veg a day
How to cook baked beans…
You have a few options here…
You can microwave your beans very easily. Pop the contents into a microwave safe dish, cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 minutes. Be careful, the container will be hot!
You can cook them in a saucepan. Just tip the contents straight into your saucepan, slowly bring to the simmer and cook for 2 or 3 minutes. Cooking them in a saucepan will also give you the opportunity to cook them down a bit and concentrate them or thicken them up if needs be.
You can cook them over flames. One of my favourite ways to cook beans and ultimately making the best BBQ beans is to cook them over flames. Tip your contents into a saucepan or small metal tray and cook them over a medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Take them where you want to from here…
How to jazz up a single can of baked beans?…
Baked beans are one of my staple store cupboard ingredents! Easy to use, cheap, one of your ‘5 a day’ and available almost anywhere…corner stores, petorl stations, posh delicatensens, you name it! …but howw do you jazz up a simple can of beans and make them potentially something slightly tastier and basically a meal from a tin…
Soy Sauce – a lovely way to add a slight saltiness and umami taste to your beans…
Cheese – slowly melting any cheese known to man in a can of beans and serving it with literally anything is good!..
Sweet chilli – not my favourite condiment but great added to beans and put with potato, in a wrap or with some bbq smoked meats…
Hot sauce or dried chilli – add and let your beans bubble away for a couple of minutes for a spicy kick…
Bacon – frying off a bit of bacon or pork until crispy and then adding beans is dam delicious and classic combo..
Are baked beans safe to eat striaght from the tin?
Yes, canned baked beans are generally safe to eat straight from the tin as they undergo a cooking process during the canning. However, it’s recommended to heat them before consumption to get the best taste and to ensure any potential bacteria are eliminated. Always check the label for specific instructions on whether the product needs to be heated or if it can be consumed directly from the can.
To buy or not to buy top brand baked beans?
The top brand beans will be full of flavour and most likely taste better than the own brand. There is no doubt about it! However, we are a budget site, and my local shop will charge me 30-50p for a can of own brand beans, whilst the top brand beans are £1.40-1.50. I’m looking to make cheap meals from a store cupboard product on a budget.
The answer for me is no to the branded! Own brand every time!
Can you cook baked beans in the can on an open fire?
Yes! Baked beans have been the ultimate camping food for decades and people of all shapes and sizes have cooked beans on a fire in the can.
If you are going to cook the can straight on the fire, open the can with a can opener and place it on a grate or hot coals. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and adjust the distance from the flames to prevent burning. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the beans are hot. Use tongs or a heat-resistant glove to safely remove the can from the fire. Allow it to cool briefly before serving.
I am a beginner cook, can u suggest some really easy and delicious baked bean recipes for beginners?
Spicy Baked Beans Quesadillas
Empty your can of beans into a pan and bring to a simmer until slightly thickened. You can use straight from the can if needs be. Place a flour tortilla into a frying pan, add a layer or beans, followed by some chopped onion, some pickled jalapeño and some shredded cheddar cheese. Place the other tortilla on top and cook for around 4-5 mins on each side, until the contents are hot and the tortillas are browned.
Spicy Baked Bean wraps
Sauté onions and peppers in oil for a few minutes and then add spices and fry for a few more minutes. Add canned baked beans, heat through to desired consistency, then spoon onto warm tortillas. Top with crisp lettuce, cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Cheesy Baked Bean Stuffed Potatoes
Bake potatoes in the oven until soft on the inside. Mash the inside with a blend of baked beans, shredded cheese, sour cream, and a hint of garlic powder. Restuff the potatoes, sprinkle extra cheese, and bake until golden.
