Delaware BBQ Pit Beans with Smoked Bacon

Introduction

These BBQ pit beans with smoked bacon are slow-cooked on the Arteflame grill for a deep, smoky flavor. Cooking everything directly on the flat-top griddle ensures a perfectly even sear without burning. This method intensifies the rich, caramelized taste of the beans and bacon, making them a must-have for any BBQ.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked pinto beans
• 6 slices thick-cut smoked bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready.

Step 2: Cook the smoked bacon

1. Place the chopped bacon onto the hot flat cooktop near the center for optimal heat.
2. Let it sizzle, stirring occasionally, until crispy and fully rendered.
3. Move the bacon to a cooler part of the cooktop to stay warm.

Step 3: Sauté onions and garlic

1. In the bacon drippings, add diced onions and minced garlic.
2. Cook until the onions are soft and lightly caramelized.

Step 4: Combine ingredients

1. Add the cooked beans to the griddle, spreading them into an even layer.
2. Stir in BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Fold in the crispy bacon and allow the beans to simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish and serve

1. Add butter and let it melt into the beans for a rich, creamy texture.
2. Let the beans cook until they thicken and develop a beautifully caramelized crust.
3. Serve hot straight from the Arteflame.

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, cook the beans closer to the center of the cooktop.
• Use thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite and better texture.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even caramelization.

Variations

1. Spicy BBQ Beans: Add diced jalapeños and a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat.
2. Maple Bacon Beans: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
3. Beer-Infused Beans: Splash in 1/4 cup of your favorite dark beer for extra richness.
4. Smoky Chipotle Beans: Add a teaspoon of adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers for a smoky heat.
5. Vegetarian BBQ Beans: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika and liquid smoke for a deep, smoky essence.

Conclusion

These Delaware-style BBQ pit beans with smoked bacon are a perfect side for any outdoor gathering, taking on an irresistible smoky and caramelized flavor straight from the Arteflame. The balance of crispy bacon, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, and melt-in-your-mouth beans will have everyone coming back for more.

Best Pairings

• Grilled steak, seared to perfection on the center grill grate
• Butter-grilled cornbread cooked on the flat-top
• Smoked brisket or pulled pork
• Grilled coleslaw for a crisp, tangy contrast
• A glass of craft beer or smoky bourbon