Ideal Nutrition

Baked Beans

Some nice comfort food for the beginning of Fall. Serves 6-8

4 cups small white beans (or pinto, adzuka, other)
warm water
2 medium onions
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 small can tomato paste
3  tbsp naturally fermented soy sauce
3 tbsp vinegar
1/4 cup molasses
3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
1 tsp sea salt
pinch of red chili flakes

Cover beans with warm water and leave in a warm place for 24 hours.  In a flameproof casserole, saute onion in butter and oil. Drain beans, rinse and add to casserole, with enough water to cover them.  Bring to boil and skim.  Add remaining ingredients, cover and bake in a 350 degree oven for about 6 hours, stirring occasionally and adding a little water, if necessary, to prevent burning.  Serve with sauerkraut, whole grain or corn bread and turkey, lamb or vegetarian sausage.  Note : if desired add 1/4 pound naturally smoked bacon. Chop in 1/2 ” pieces , gently fry and add to beans 1 hour before serving.