Preparing Cowboy Beans

Cowboy beans are a hearty dish that combines beans, smoked meats, and a savoury sauce. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or a side dish at a barbecue.

Ingredients

• Beans:
  • 2 cups (400g) canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups (400g) canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Meat:
  • 200g smoked bacon, diced
  • 200g smoked sausage or chorizo, sliced
• Vegetables:
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper (any color), diced
• Sauce:
  • 1 cup (240ml) barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) ketchup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water or beef broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp molasses or brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon
• Large oven-safe Dutch oven or casserole dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Preparation and Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Dice the bacon and sausage.
   • Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Cook the Bacon and Sausage:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Cook the diced bacon until it starts to crisp. Add the sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a large Dutch oven or casserole dish, combine the sautéed vegetables, cooked meats, beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, water, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to mix well.
5. Bake:
   • Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
   • Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
6. Serve:
   • Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or on its own. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: ~18g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
  • Fiber: ~10g
  • Sugars: ~12g
• Fat: ~15g
  • Saturated Fat: ~5g
• Cholesterol: ~45mg
• Sodium: ~900mg

Enjoy this rustic and satisfying dish!