Boozed Baked Beans
Bubba Durand

Baked beans made with Jack Daniel's whiskey.
For a low fat version, substitute low fat ham for the bacon.

6 slices bacon
(or 1/4 lb low fat ham + 1 T oil for the low fat version)
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
2 (16 oz) cans beans (see note*)
1/4 cup (packed) brown sugar
1 t Worcestershire sauce
1 t dry mustard
1 C ketchup
1 T molasses
1/4 C Jack Daniel's whiskey

* Note: use plain canned beans like pinto beans, red beans, black beans, navy beans, great northern beans, or black-eye peas.

  • Cook bacon in skillet until done but not yet crisp.
  • Remove from pan, dice and set aside.
  • Drain all but 2 T bacon drippings.
  • Saute onion and bell pepper in the bacon drippings until soft.
  • Combine beans, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, ketchup, molasses, and whiskey in a 1 qt casserole.
  • Top with bacon.
  • Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven 40 to 45 minutes.

    LOW FAT VERSION:
    Without the bacon on top to keep the beans from drying out, it's better to simmer the low fat version rather than bake it.
  • Mince the ham and saute in 1 T oil in a non-stick skillet until brown and crisp.
  • Remove ham, leaving any remaining oil in the skillet.
  • Saute onion and bell pepper in the oil until soft.
  • Combine beans, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, ketchup, molasses, whiskey, and ham in a sauce pan.
  • Simmer, uncovered, over medium-low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour (or until reduced and thickened), stirring frequently.



    The Johnson Family Cookbook