Easy Smoky Baked Beans
Cosy homemade smoky baked beans – three types of beans, and lots of lovely spices. Pure delicious comfort food – make a big batch to freeze.

There’s something so comforting about a big pan of smoky baked beans. I grew up with Heinz baked beans and I still love them–I have such a strong association of cosy weekends and when I’ve been away for long periods of time; they are one thing I can’t wait to get back to eat. Mmm with some good and thick sourdough toast or on a slow baked potato and I’m in heaven.
But you know what? I think they are even better if you make them yourself and, of course, you know exactly what’s gone into them! Dramatically less sugar and salt and extra goodies like mixed beans and more of a smoky flavour.
Essentially, the principle is the same–tomatoes, beans, onions, garlic, smoked paprika and some sweetness and acidity.
As this makes a pretty big batch, they’re perfect for eating in so many ways; on toast, with rice, a crispy jacket potato, plus I also like to add some soy chunks for added protein and texture…
These guys would be absolutely perfect for bonfire night with potatoes on the bonfire, corn on the cob and crunchy slaw… yum!

Easy Smoky Baked Beans
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 packs/tins organic tomatoes
- 1 courgette sliced
- 3 sundried tomatoes chopped up finely–optional
- 2 tsp tamari
- 1 pack organic borlotti beans
- 1 pack organic red kidney beans
- 1 pack organic cannelloni beans
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp liquid smoke–optional
- Optional–extra sprinkle of chilli flakes
Instructions
- Add the onion to a large pan with the oil and sauté for 10 minutes on a low heat.
- Add in the garlic and spices and fry for a further few minutes.
- Next, add the courgette, tomatoes and sundried tomatoes and simmer for 30 minutes on a very low heat.
- Finally, add in the beans, tamari, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke.
- Simmer for a few minutes, then season with the salt, pepper and chilli to taste.
6 Responses
Hi Niki, checked out all that new stuff from you on Pinterest and LOVE it. Printed out this recipe idea for next week. I really hope you are doing good and your Food journey is so amazing I hope for you (bad english LOL). xoxo Janine
Hey lovely!
Thank you! Oh yay, few new recipes on here. Really hope you like this one honey.
All a bit mad but amazing…catch up soon.
Love Niki xx
These look incredible – I love making home-made baked beans, taste so much better than out of a can!
Lauren x
Elle Bloggs
Hey Lauren
Thank you ????
So true, so much better!
Love Niki xx
Is a “pack” the same as a can? If so, how large?
Hi Paul
Yes the same as a can. I just used a pack instead.
Best wishes
Niki x