Adding Worcestershire sauce to baked beans while they cook transforms the dish, cutting through the sweetness of the tomato sauce and enhancing the flavour, according to a trial by The Express.
Why Worcestershire sauce works
Baked beans are a staple in many British households, but they can be quite bland straight from the can. The Express writer Katherine McPhillips tested numerous ingredients from her store cupboard and found Worcestershire sauce to be the clear winner.
Worcestershire sauce has an acidic quality that counteracts the sweetness of the sauce, helping to enhance the strong tomato flavour. It also contributes a rich, savoury depth without overwhelming the beans, giving them a sweet, spicy and salty quality.
How to make the upgrade
To make the beans, you will need one can of baked beans, two slices of bread, one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, grated cheese, a slab of butter (optional) and black pepper.
Start by popping the bread in the toaster, then tip the beans into a saucepan and place over a medium heat. Once the beans begin to simmer, add the Worcestershire sauce and season with black pepper. Additional herbs and spices, such as a pinch of smoked paprika, are optional.
Stir the beans for two minutes until they bubble, then remove from the heat. Place the toast on a tray once it emerges from the toaster.
Assembling the dish
Spread a generous amount of butter over the toast, spoon the baked beans on top and finish with a scattering of grated cheese. Add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce over the cheese, then place in an oven preheated to 200°C for a further two minutes.
Once the time is up, the cheesy beans will emerge bubbling and piping hot, ready in under five minutes.
