European Soldier Beans

European Soldier Beans

Pure ivory with coffee-colored markings, European soldier beans are known as New England’s finest baking beans. The beans absorb all the rich flavor of traditional sweet and savory baking sauces.  Zursun.com heirloom beans. 

New England Baked Beans 

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried European soldier beans
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 slices smoked bacon, cut in one-inch pieces (optional)
• ½ cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1½ tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp. maple syrup
• ½ tsp. prepared yellow mustard
• 1 tsp. salt (less if bacon is used)
• ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
Sort beans and soak overnight in bowl using 3 times as much water as beans. The next morning rinse beans with cold water. 

Put beans in heavy saucepan, cover with two inches fresh water and bring to a slow boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until tender (35-45 minutes). Reserve some bean liquid for casserole.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. 

In fry pan heat oil, add onion and sauté for 5 minutes. Add garlic and bacon (if using) and cook 2 minutes more. In large casserole, combine drained beans, onions and the rest of the ingredients. Mix to coat beans. 

Cover dish with lid or foil. Bake for 1 hour, checking twice for drying. If beans begin to look dry, stir in extra bean water or plain water. Serve piping hot.  

Serves 2 to 4     Buy: Zursun.com