Cowboy Beans

When Hubby and I were married, three years ago, we got some very cool wedding gifts. One very unique gift we received was from my Aunt Marion. My aunt and uncle live in Malawi, Africa, with their family, serving as missionaries with African Bible Colleges. Unfortunately, because it wasn't a furlough year for them, they were unable to attend our wedding. However, they sent a very special present with my grandparents (also missionaries in Malawi).

It is a beautiful, African-made beanpot. Before I received the pot, along with instructions from my aunt (and a recipe- which I will share with you!), I had never heard of a beanpot. It is ceramic or stoneware (I'm not sure which) with a lid. I think it works much like a crock pot, designed to cook slow and low. If you don't have a beanpot, you may be able to try this recipe in your crock pot instead (although I haven't tested it!).

The recipe my aunt included with the special pot is SO good. I made it for our church's fourth of July barbecue last week and people couldn't stop raving about it! When so many wonderful ingredients are combined, how can you go wrong?

Cowboy Beans

(printable version)

makes approx. 8-10 side-dish servings

1/4 lb. bacon

1/4. lb. hamburger

1 onion, chopped

1 28 oz. can pork and beans

1 16 oz. can kidney beans, drained

1 16 oz. can butter beans, drained

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup white sugar

1/4 cup barbecue sauce

1/4 cup ketchup

1 TB mustard

2 TB molasses

a few drops of liquid smoke (optional)

Preheat oven to 250.

Fry and crumble the bacon. Brown hamburger and onions in bacon grease.

Combine all ingredients in beanpot and bake 4-5 hrs.

(If you don't have a beanpot, try using the crockpot on low for 4-6 hrs)