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Calico Beans hold a special place in my heart, a dish that always seemed to bring warmth and comfort to my childhood home. I remember my mother standing at the stove, stirring the pot, the aroma of simmering beans and beef filling the kitchen with a sense of anticipation. The medley of flavors, the sweet and savory balance, made Calico Beans a favorite during family gatherings. It was a dish that brought everyone together, each spoonful a reminder of home.
As I grew older, I realized just how versatile and forgiving Calico Beans can be. Whether it was a cozy dinner on a chilly night or a hearty dish for a potluck, this recipe never failed to impress. The beauty of Calico Beans lies in its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. The combination of beans and beef, perfectly seasoned, offers a delightful texture and flavor that is hard to resist.
Over the years, I’ve encountered many variations of this classic dish, each with its own unique twist. Yet, the core of Calico Beans remains unchanged—a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a dish that invites creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your taste while honoring its comforting roots. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both easy to prepare and sure to please, Calico Beans is your answer.
Calico Beans
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Discover the perfect recipe for flavorful Calico Beans! Learn how to make this hearty and delicious dish packed with a variety of beans and savory seasonings. Perfect for your next meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (454 g)
- 1/2 cup beef strips, chopped (65 g)
- 1 (15 ounce (425 g)) can beef and beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained (425 g)
- 1 (15 ounce) can butter beans (425 g)
- 1 (15 ounce) can lima beans, drained (425 g)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (200 g)
- 1 cup chopped onion (150 g)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery (75 g)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (120 ml)
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (45 ml)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) mustard powder
Instructions
- Collect all necessary items. Set the oven to warm up to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Brown the lean beef and chopped beef strips in a big, deep pan over medium-high heat until they are uniformly cooked. Remove excess fat and move the meat to a 4-quart baking dish.
- Combine the beef and beans, kidney beans, butter beans, and drained lima beans with the brown sugar, chopped onion, celery, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and mustard powder in the baking dish. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover the dish and place it in the preheated oven, baking until the mixture is bubbling and heated all the way through, roughly 1 hour.
Notes
- For a lighter dish, use lean ground turkey instead of beef.
- Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of spice.
- Top the dish with shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor.
Mastering Calico Beans
Fundamentals
Calico Beans are a delightful combination of beans and beef, creating a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. The key to this recipe is the balance of ingredients, which includes lean ground beef, beef strips, and a variety of beans such as kidney beans, butter beans, and lima beans. The addition of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar provides a sweet and tangy contrast that elevates the dish.
Understanding the fundamentals of Calico Beans is essential to achieving the perfect blend of flavors. The lean ground beef and beef strips provide a rich, savory base, while the assortment of beans adds texture and depth. The brown sugar and apple cider vinegar work together to create a harmonious balance, making each bite a delightful experience.
Preparation/setup
Before you begin, gather all necessary ingredients and preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Start by browning the lean ground beef and chopped beef strips in a large, deep pan over medium-high heat. Make sure to cook the meat evenly, then drain any excess fat before transferring it to a 4-quart baking dish. This step ensures that your Calico Beans have a rich, meaty flavor without excess grease.
Incorporate the variety of beans into the baking dish, along with chopped onion, celery, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and mustard powder. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure that the flavors meld together. Cover the dish and place it in the preheated oven, allowing it to bake until the mixture is bubbling and heated through, approximately one hour. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious.
Crafting Flavorful Calico Beans
Technique
Creating the perfect Calico Beans involves paying attention to technique. The process begins with properly browning the beef, which is crucial for building depth of flavor. Utilize a large pan to ensure even cooking, and avoid overcrowding to achieve a nice sear on the meat. The browning process not only enhances the taste but also adds a rich color to the dish.
Once the beef is prepared, the focus shifts to combining the beans and other ingredients. Ensure that all components are well-mixed to distribute the flavors evenly. The use of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar is a classic technique that adds complexity, balancing the savory elements with a touch of sweetness and acidity. This creates a harmonious blend that defines Calico Beans.
Calico Beans
Tips/tricks
To enhance your Calico Beans, consider a few tips and tricks. First, be mindful of the beans’ texture. It’s essential to drain the kidney beans and lima beans to prevent excess liquid from diluting the flavors. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the dish.
Experimenting with the seasoning can also lead to delightful variations. Adjust the amount of mustard powder to suit your taste, or add a pinch of chili powder for a subtle kick. These small adjustments allow you to personalize the dish while maintaining its beloved essence. For more inspiration on bean-based dishes, check out this Sopa de Fideo with Ground Beef and Beans recipe that incorporates hearty ingredients.
Perfecting Your Calico Beans Recipe
Perfecting results
To achieve perfect results with Calico Beans, focus on the balance of flavors and textures. The sweet and tangy notes should complement the savory base, creating a dish that is both complex and comforting. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before baking to ensure everything is well-balanced.
Timing is also critical. Bake the dish long enough for the flavors to meld and the beans to become tender. The goal is to achieve a bubbling, evenly cooked mixture that is richly flavored and satisfying. If you encounter any issues, such as the dish being too thin, extend the baking time slightly to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Troubleshooting/variations
If your Calico Beans don’t turn out as expected, there are ways to troubleshoot. For a thicker consistency, consider reducing the tomato sauce or adding an extra tablespoon of brown sugar. If the dish lacks depth, try incorporating additional spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika.
Variations are another way to keep this dish exciting. Add diced bell peppers for color and crunch, or try different types of beans such as black beans for a unique twist. For more bean-related inspirations, explore the comforting flavors of this Green Chile Picadillo and Pinto Beans recipe.
Serving and Storing Calico Beans
Serving/presentation
Presentation plays a significant role in enhancing the dining experience. Serve Calico Beans in a rustic bowl to emphasize its comforting nature. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. The visual appeal can make the dish even more inviting and enjoyable.
For side dishes, consider pairing Calico Beans with a simple green salad or crusty bread to round out the meal. The combination of textures and flavors will please your guests and complement the heartiness of the beans. For an interesting side option, try this recipe for Green Beans with Roasted Garlic.
Calico Beans
Pairings/storage
Calico Beans pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Think about serving them alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. When it comes to storage, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze for longer preservation.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. With proper storage, Calico Beans can provide a quick and satisfying meal at a moment’s notice. For another delightful dinner idea, consider this Creamy Mexican Rice Casserole with Cheese and Beans.
Conclusion
Calico Beans offer a comforting and versatile dish that beautifully combines beans and beef into a flavorful medley. The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the rich, savory flavor, makes this recipe a beloved staple in many kitchens. With the right techniques and a bit of creativity, you can master this dish and make it your own.
From perfecting the balance of flavors to experimenting with variations, Calico Beans cater to both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. Embrace the joy of cooking and let Calico Beans become a cherished part of your recipe collection.
