Do You Cook Bacon Before Adding It To Beans? Explained

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

If you’re making a traditional bean dish or a satisfying chili, adding bacon can take your meal to another level.

But do you cook the bacon before adding it to the beans? Let’s find out.

Should You Cook Bacon Before Adding It To Beans?

Yes. If you like a crispier texture and flavor, it’s best to cook it before adding it to the beans. Doing so will ensure the bacon gets the most flavor and texture from the cooking process. 

However, if you prefer a softer, juicier texture, it’s best to add the bacon to the beans and let them cook together. This will create more tender and moist bacon that will blend nicely with the beans. 

Cooking bacon before adding it to beans also depends on the beans you use. If you’re using quick-cooking beans, it’s best to cook the bacon before adding it. 

This will help the bacon cook faster and more evenly. If you’re using dried beans, add the bacon and let them cook together.

Read: How To Know When Bacon Is Done?

How To Make Beans With Bacon

1. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the cooked bacon and set aside. 
2. Add the onions and garlic to the bacon drippings and cook until the onions are soft and translucent. 
3. Add the beans to the pot and the bacon and enough water to cover the beans. 
4. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
5. Add the seasonings of your choice, and cook for 15 minutes or until the beans are tender. 
6. Serve the beans with the cooked bacon sprinkled on top.

Read: Can You Eat Bacon Right Out Of The Package?

Tips & Tricks When Adding Cooked Bacon To Beans

1. Before adding the bacon to your beans, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy.
2. Once the bacon is cooked, allow it to cool before adding it to the beans. This will help prevent any splatter from the hot grease.
3. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces and add it to the beans.
4. Stir the bacon into the beans and allow it to cook for a few minutes before serving.
5. If you’d like to add extra flavor, use a tablespoon of bacon fat to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the bacon to the beans.
6. For added crunch, you can fry the bacon pieces in a skillet before adding them to the cooked beans.
7. If you’re using canned beans, add the cooked bacon directly to the can before heating it. This will allow the bacon to heat up with the beans and add flavor to the dish.

Read: Can You Eat Raw Canadian Bacon?

How To Make Beans More Flavorful

Beans [1] are a great source of protein, but they can be bland. To make beans more flavorful, try adding a variety of herbs and spices. 

Chopped onion, garlic, chiles, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, and paprika are all excellent choices. Try sautéing the herbs and spices in oil for extra flavor before adding them to the beans. 

“Life is too short not to order the bacon dessert.”

– George Takei, Actor

You can also add a touch of sweetness by adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. Finally, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper.

What Do You Put In Beans To Make Them Thicker?

One way to make beans thicker is to add a thickening agent, such as starch or flour. Starch options include cornstarch, arrowroot powder, potato, and tapioca. 

Flour options include all-purpose flour, chickpea flour, and rice flour. 

To use these ingredients, mix a tablespoon of the starch or flour with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir into the beans.

Cook and stir the beans over medium-low heat until they reach the desired thickness.

FAQs

In Conclusion

When it comes to cooking bacon [2] before adding it to beans, it depends on personal preference. Some people prefer to cook the bacon before adding it to the beans, while others prefer to add the bacon raw to the beans. 

It is important to consider the type of beans, the desired texture, and the cooking time when deciding whether to cook the bacon before adding it to the beans. 

Reference:

1. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/food-reviews/g31112479/best-baked-beans/
2. https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019919-oven-bacon