Baked beans are a traditional dish with deep roots in the cuisine of the United States, especially popular in the South and in New England. Their origin dates back to colonial times, when settlers adapted Native American recipes that used beans and combined them with available ingredients like pork and sugar to create a nutritious and tasty dish. In Latin America, although it is not exactly the same dish, there are similar versions of beans prepared with different types of meat and seasonings. For example, in Mexico and Central America, refried beans and beans stewed with chorizo or bacon are very common. In some South American countries, they are simply called "beans with meat" or adopt local names depending on the ingredients used.
This recipe combines the sweetness of tart apples and brown sugar with the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce and bacon, creating a perfect balance between salty and sweet that characterizes baked beans. The variety of umami-rich ingredients and textures make this a very comforting and popular dish for family gatherings and holidays.
