Savory Bavarian Baked Beans
This delightful Bavarian-inspired dish marries tender pork and beans with tangy sauerkraut and sweet applesauce, creating a uniquely flavorful side that perfectly complements roasted pork or ham. The harmony of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by brown sugar and a hint of mustard, transforms a simple bean dish into a hearty accompaniment suitable for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy this comforting dish that embodies the essence of German cuisine, perfect for any table.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
pork and beans
2 (15 ounce) cans (canned, no preparation needed)
sauerkraut
1 (14 ounce) can (rinsed and well drained)
unsweetened applesauce
1 cup (uncooked)
brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the pork and beans, rinsed sauerkraut, applesauce, brown sugar, salt, and ground mustard.
3
Once well mixed, transfer the mixture to a 2-quart baking dish that has been coated with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4
Spread the mixture evenly across the dish to ensure even cooking.
5
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dish is bubbly and lightly caramelized on top. Stir occasionally during baking for best results.
6
Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Bavarian Baked Beans?
It is a Bavarian-inspired side dish that combines tender pork and beans with tangy sauerkraut and sweet applesauce for a unique flavor profile.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include two 15-ounce cans of pork and beans, a 14-ounce can of sauerkraut, one cup of unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, salt, and ground mustard.
How should the sauerkraut be prepared?
The sauerkraut should be rinsed and well-drained before being added to the mixture.
What type of applesauce is recommended?
The recipe calls for one cup of unsweetened applesauce.
What oven temperature is required for baking?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the dish.
How long do the Bavarian Baked Beans need to bake?
The dish should be baked uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours until it is bubbly and lightly caramelized.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 2-quart baking dish is the appropriate size for this recipe.
Should the baking dish be covered or uncovered?
The instructions specify to bake the dish uncovered to allow for caramelization.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What main courses pair best with these beans?
This side dish perfectly complements roasted pork or ham.
How do I prevent the beans from sticking to the pan?
Coating the 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray before adding the mixture will prevent sticking.
Is there any special preparation needed for the pork and beans?
No, you can use canned pork and beans directly without any additional preparation.
What role does brown sugar play in this recipe?
Brown sugar provides a sweet harmony to the savory beans and tangy sauerkraut, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Do I need to stir the beans while they are in the oven?
Yes, you should stir the mixture occasionally during baking for the best results.
How do I know when the dish is finished cooking?
The dish is done when it is bubbly and the top has become lightly caramelized.
Can I adjust the amount of mustard and salt?
Yes, the recipe suggests using 1/2 teaspoon of each, adjusted to your personal taste.
Is this a traditional German dish?
It is a Bavarian-inspired dish that embodies the essence of German cuisine through its use of sauerkraut and applesauce.
Why should the beans sit after being removed from the oven?
Letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows the complex sweet and savory flavors to meld together.
How do I ensure the beans cook evenly?
Spread the mixture evenly across the baking dish before placing it in the oven to ensure even heat distribution.
Is the sauerkraut flavor overpowering?
No, rinsing and draining the sauerkraut, combined with the sweetness of applesauce and brown sugar, creates a balanced flavor.
How many ingredients are required in total?
The recipe requires a total of 6 ingredients.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is a hearty, comforting dish with a blend of sweet and savory flavors and a hint of tanginess.
Can this be served at large gatherings?
Yes, it is suitable for family gatherings, potlucks, or special occasions.
What is the preparation time for the applesauce?
The applesauce is used uncooked and requires no preparation.
Is ground mustard essential for the recipe?
Ground mustard provides a hint of savory depth that balances the sweeter elements of the dish.
Should the brown sugar be packed?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar.
What type of beans are used in Bavarian Baked Beans?
The recipe specifically uses canned pork and beans.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best served fresh, the flavors often improve as they sit, making it a good candidate for advanced preparation.
How much sauerkraut is used?
The recipe requires one 14-ounce can of sauerkraut.
Is this dish considered comfort food?
Yes, its hearty and savory-sweet nature makes it a classic comfort food side dish.