Tinned baked beans can be transformed into a more satisfying meal by adding two common kitchen ingredients while they cook, according to a recipe from SimplyRecipes.
Worcestershire sauce adds depth
The recipe suggests that adding Worcestershire sauce “adds depth” to baked beans, helping to balance the dish's natural sweetness. The condiment must be incorporated while the beans are cooking, meaning they should be heated on the hob rather than in the microwave.
Around one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce should be added to the beans as they warm in a saucepan, stirring thoroughly to ensure it is evenly mixed. The sauce works especially well because baked beans come in a naturally sweet tomato sauce, introducing a pleasing tanginess. A little more can be added for those who prefer a bolder flavour, though it is advisable to begin with a modest amount.
A bottle of Worcestershire sauce from Tesco costs £1.30, making the trick inexpensive. Some enthusiasts even advocate adding the condiment to their spaghetti bolognese.
Black pepper for gentle heat
The second ingredient is black pepper, which most households already have in their kitchen cupboards. Incorporating a generous grind of black pepper can add gentle heat while elevating the beans' savoury notes.
Unlike chilli, black pepper does not render the beans particularly fiery, but it can prevent them from tasting excessively sweet or insipid. For optimal results, the black pepper should be introduced while the beans are heating and stirred thoroughly through the sauce. The beans can then be sampled before adding slightly more if a more pronounced flavour is desired.
The two ingredients are most effective when combined, with the Worcestershire sauce contributing richness and the black pepper delivering a touch of additional warmth. Incorporating a modest amount of butter can also lend baked beans a creamier texture, but if the tomato character is favoured, it is best to rely on Worcestershire sauce and black pepper alone.
