Southern Pork & Beans

Southern Pork & Beans is a classic dish that combines tender pork and hearty beans, typically flavored with smoky bacon and a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into small cubes
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the drippings in the pan.
2. Add the pork cubes to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Brown the pork on all sides until it becomes golden and cooked through. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Return the cooked pork to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Add the drained pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder. Stir well to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon and canned ingredients may already contain some salt, so adjust accordingly.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly. If desired, mash some of the beans against the side of the skillet to thicken the mixture even more.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Serve the Southern Pork & Beans hot as a main dish or as a side dish alongside cornbread, rice, or other Southern favorites. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic Southern dish!