American Flags, parades, fireworks, picnics, families, friends, and nostalgia - these are some of the memories that I have of the Independence Day 4th of July.

Family picnics were integral events in my family. I recall elaborate events on my grandparent's lawn, surrounded by a meticulously pruned hedge, the backyard had lawn chairs and tables laden with perfect cool finger foods. Radish roses, curled carrots, and celery sticks cold from the refrigerator. In other years picnics were hosted at my Aunt and Uncle's, and there we were allowed to have sparklers, and the older children lit firecrackers. And I recall many, many years when picnics were hosted at my parent's home. Happy memories of helping my mom make macaroni and potato salad, and watching my mother make her famous baked beans.

My mother had that knack of cooking without a recipe so when we wanted to recreate these awesome baked beans she was tasked with writing it out. Mom always made these in the cool of the morning, and then they would cook and keep warm for the rest of the day, so cooking times are hard to pin down. Mom always cooked a crockpot full, that contained 7 pounds of baked beans + 2 pounds of bacon, they were delicious, and leftovers never lasted long.

A few important notes - always fry and drain the bacon, and always cook the onions. I have made these with Bush’s Baked Beans - any variety should work. These two companies beans are gluten free.  

I have cut Mom’s recipe in half, but feel free to scale back up. 

5 Quart pot with lid or crock pot
4 cans -28 oz B&M Original Baked Beans 
5-6 large onions, sliced and sautéd 
1lb bacon, cooked, drained, and diced
5 tablespoons ketchup
5 tablespoon brown sugar
3 teaspoons dry mustard

Oven method: Add all the prepared ingredients to the 5 quart pot, baked in an oven at 350F until bubbly. Then bake for an hour stirring occasionally. Reduce oven heat and keep warm. 

Crock Pot method: Add all the ingredients to crock pot, cook on high for 1-2 hours then keep warm. 

Either way the beans should be cooked until thick and bubbly. 

We wish you a festive 4th of July! 

With warm wishes for your home,
from the husMait home kitchen.

Supplies list:
fry pan
5 quart pot
Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons
Stainless Steel Knives