Amish Beans Recipe: A Hearty and Traditional Dish
The Amish are known for their simple yet flavorful home-cooked meals, and one dish that perfectly embodies their wholesome culinary tradition is Amish Beans. This dish, often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and church suppers, is rich, hearty, and packed with sweet and savory flavors. With a base of tender beans, smoky bacon, and a delicious sauce, this recipe is both comforting and easy to prepare.
Everybody’s favorite neighbor in Holmes County, Ella Schrock, shared this recipe with me and it is the absolute best! Brown sugar and molasses combine with the tang of the apple cider vinegar to create the most amazing taste.
Whether you’re looking for a new side dish or a satisfying main course, Amish Beans are a great choice. The following recipe brings out the best of these classic flavors while staying true to the Amish tradition of using fresh, simple ingredients.
Amish Beans Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried navy beans (or canned beans for convenience)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups water (or more as needed)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. The next day, drain and rinse them before cooking in a pot of fresh water until tender (about 1–1.5 hours). Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse before use.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onion
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Add the cooked beans and crispy bacon to the sauce, stirring well to coat. Pour in 2 cups of water, ensuring the beans are well-covered. Cover the pot or transfer to a baking dish, then bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the beans have thickened and the flavors are fully developed, remove from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Amish Beans pair wonderfully with fresh bread, cornbread, or as a side to grilled meats.
Tips for the Best Amish Beans
- For extra flavor, try using a mix of navy beans and pinto beans.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a little smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
- Make it in a slow cooker by cooking on low for 6–8 hours instead of baking.
This simple yet delicious Amish Beans recipe is a true taste of traditional home cooking. Whether served at a family dinner or a summer cookout, these beans are sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!