A hearty and flavorful baked navy beans recipe, perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal.
Sort through the dried navy beans to remove any debris.
Rinse the beans thoroughly to remove any dust or impurities.
Add the beans to a large pot with enough water to cover them by a few inches and the baking soda.
The baking soda helps soften the beans during soaking.
Bring the pot to a boil, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit overnight.
This step ensures the beans are tender and ready for baking.
Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
Rinsing removes any residual baking soda and impurities.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Combine the beans, ham, onion, bay leaf, salt, and brown sugar in an oven-proof pot. Add enough water to just cover the beans.
Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cover the pot with its lid and bake in the oven for 5 to 6 hours, stirring every hour and adding water if needed to keep the beans covered.
Check the beans periodically to ensure they don't dry out.
Remove the pot from the oven and let the beans cool slightly before serving.
Serve the beans warm with your favorite sides for a comforting meal.