Barbecue Baked Beans

Barbecue Baked Beans

2 medium carrots, diced
1 large onion, diced
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup water
1-1/4 cups plain tomato sauce
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup pure dark maple syrup
2 teaspoons liquid smoke
1/4 cup vegan Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed

In a Dutch oven or 10-inch skillet, simmer carrots, onion, garlic, and water until all the liquid has evaporated.

Preheat an oven to 325 degrees.

Add the remaining ingredients and stir gently until thoroughly mixed. Move to the oven and bake, uncovered, for about an hour until it is bubbling and the juices have thickened into a nice crust on top. At this point, the beans are ready to serve, but if you have the time, you can add a bit of liquid as needed and cook a further hour or two. This will result in deeper flavors.

Serve with brown soda bread and some broccoli, or use as a topping for a stuffed potato.