Baked Beans
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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These homemade baked beans are a world away from the shop-bought tinned variety, offering a deep, smoky sweetness and a sophisticated flavour profile. By slow-cooking dried navy beans with maple syrup, salt pork, and a hint of English mustard, you create a rich, velvety sauce that develops beautifully in the oven. It is a patient process that rewards you with a comforting, high-fibre dish that is far more satisfying than any quick alternative.
As a naturally dairy-free recipe, this hearty dish is an excellent choice for a wholesome weekend brunch or as a substantial side for a traditional roast. The addition of cider vinegar at the end provide a necessary brightness to balance the dark sweetness of the syrup. Serve these beans on thick slices of toasted sourdough for a truly elevated take on a British cupboard staple.
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Ingredients for Baked Beans
450g dried navy beans (350g )
1 (1/4-lb) piece salt pork (rind discarded)
1075ml water
1 large onion, finely chopped (about 300g )
2 chopped garlic cloves
120ml Grade B maple syrup
1 tablespoon dry English mustard (preferably Colman's)
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How to make Baked Beans
Pick over and rinse 450g dried navy beans (550ml ). Soak in cold water to cover by 2 inches at least 8 hours. Alternatively, quick-soak beans (see cooks' note, below). Drain.
Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 177°C. Rinse and pat dry 1 (1/4-lb) piece salt pork (rind discarded), then cut into 3 pieces.
Put beans and pork in an ovenproof 3-quart heavy pot with a lid. Add 1075ml water, 1 large onion (finely chopped; about 300g ), 2 chopped garlic cloves, 120ml Grade B maple syrup, 1 tablespoon dry English mustard (preferably Colman's), and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and stir to combine. Cover pot and bake until beans are just tender, 3 to 4 hours.
Reduce oven temperature to 163°C. Remove lid. Bake beans, stirring occasionally, until most of liquid is absorbed but beans are still saucy, 1 to 1 1/2 hours more. Remove from oven. Stir in 1 tablespoon cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon salt or more to taste.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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