Do any native Brits or Irish have advice/suggestions for me regarding beans on toast? As in, people who grew up with it?
Posted by xcluesif@reddit | AskUK | View on Reddit | 176 comments
I am a U.S. citizen who has gained appreciation for British snacks & dishes. Fell in love with all things custard this past year. Have tracked down authentic crumpets and driven many miles to purchase over priced double cream š. I've yet to visit, but it is on my bucket list.
I'm very intrigued by beans on toast. Before trying to make it, I need some verification or suggestions based on what I've read. I want to make what an everyday Brit would make after working 10 hours. Something simple. No fancy add-ons. From my research, I need Heinz Beans in tomato sauce (heated)- which I have found (the imported ones!). Also, a crusty sourdough or hearty white bread toasted and buttered. Is it as simple as that? Hope I'm not missing anything. Any insight would be much appreciated.
I grew up in the south of the U.S. Beans and cornbread is a very common comfort food for me. I've always smothered my beans and cornbread with ketchup because my Papa did that and I've always loved it. I get disgusting looks when I do it, but I tell people they don't have to eat it and look away. So, if the beans are in a tomato sauce, I'm sure I will love it. I can't stand baked beans I find here at grocers. They're overly sweet.
Looking forward to replies. Thanks in advance.
TankFoster@reddit
Do you have brown sauce in America? I love brown sauce on my beans on toast.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Like HP sauce? It is available here as an imported item.
TankFoster@reddit
Give it a try.
techbear72@reddit
Just baked beans on buttered toast is about as generic as it can be. Your issue is going to be the bread.
You say youāre a US citizen but are you actually in America right now? If so you need to look for bread that has less sugar in it than your regular bread to make it as authentic as possible.
Butter should be lightly salted.
Beans can be Heinz or Branston. In a ātomato sauceā of course. But you say youāve got some imported so thatās covered.
A splash of two of Worcestershire Sauce is optional. Some people like it some donāt but if you have it without and enjoy it, try next time with a couple of splashes of Worcestershire Sauce and see if you like that too. I do.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Yes, I am in Kentucky right now. I have received excellent feedback from everyone. One person mentioned bread from Aldi - they have limited ingredient breads. Gonna pick a few loaves up another person recommended.
JuniorSentence@reddit
Best consumed orally.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Mental note taken š
sookietea@reddit
Everyone else has given great advice. Iām just here to say Iām sorry about the lack of double cream in your life. I had no idea.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
This comment made me giggle! I only learned about double cream from a British lady making a custard on a blog. It is only a specialty imported item here. One has to drive to a larger city to a specialty store to even find it. And it will cost A LOT for the smallest container.
Jingoldsby@reddit
None of your crappy sugary bread so I would use what you call sour dough.
Keeping it simple butter on your bread.
Heinz (cant vouch for what you may get state side.
If you wanna mix it up / elevate it can try - Cheese (mature cheddar is best) on top Mixing in butter when you cook / lee perrings/ black pepper
Other variants grilled cheese / toastie with beans in.
Other than that dont really mess with beans on toast its a quick and easy comfort food.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
An Irish granny on TikTok made me go buy a toastie machine š. Love making a tomato and mozzarella toastie. This does sound interesting....
Jingoldsby@reddit
That and cheese tuna mayo and black pepper is a game changer. - usually called a tuna melt you may have them state side tho not 100% its been a while since I visited.
You guys have French toast i take it or eggy bread ? Generally its more of a dessert thing for yous I assume.
I generally prefer it savoury finished in the toaster or grill to crisp it up further - although with crusty sourdough may not be needed. I do an Italian style one with garlic and Italian herbs oregano/ tyme and salt and pepper. Might work well in the toastie maker tbf.
The other classic toastie for me is cheese and salami or cheese and ham.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Yes, I love French toast. You're correct. It's more of a breakfast dessert here served with maple syrup. I'll have to experiment making an eggy bread toastie. Ive only used white bread.
Asher-D@reddit
Sour dough is actually sour, I can't imagine that would taste good.
They're bread really doesn't taste sweet other than Hawiian bread.
Jingoldsby@reddit
If your used to it i guess it dosent but its got about 2.5x the sugar the bread we have in the uk.
Could try bake your own without as much sugar if you dont like SD but was trying to think of the easiest option to best replicate what we have here.
purple_crow34@reddit
I find it kinda adorable that youāre putting so much thought into the bread you use for beans on toast.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
š„°š I just want it to be as authentic as possible without getting on a plane and crossing the pond haha
M_Poppins128@reddit
It is a cheap and quick meal as others have pointed out but is actually something I would choose when in the right mood I actually do love some beans on toast. It is good with a bit of cheese. Once you've tried it on toast, I also like it on a jacket potato- I think it tastes better as Potato- butter- cheese- beans but is down to preference. If I'm not in the mood to cook much but want extra flavour, the heinz five bean mix is a great base to add some veg and spices as a quick 5 bean chilli.Ā Fun fact: in the 90s heinz brought out a bean pizza and I've only ever heard people say it was gross but I personally loved them
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Love this comment! Had to Google what a jacket potato was haha. You have taught me something. This does sound tasty. A potato does sound more hearty. I love the fun fact! Here's one for you: while digging for an ingredient list online before recently finding the Heinz beanz in a store, I found a vast line of Heinz beans in Canada - they have a Maple style bean with Quebec maple syrup. The baked beans in the U.S. are very sweet and I might find a maple bean here, but it will also have brown sugar as a base with no maple flavor. I'd be curious to try that flavor from Canada.
TotalBeginnerLol@reddit
If you like British foodā¦ get into jacket potatoes too. 1 big potato, cooked in the oven for like an hr or in the microwave for the fast way. You can put anything on top. The classics being beans with cheese, or chilli, or tuna mayo with cheese (my favourite of the 3, but all are great).
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Baked potatoes aka jacket potatoes (I shall start calling them this!) are a popular side dish with a beef steak here. Most commonly served with butter, sour cream, bacon, cheese, and chives. Not always all of those ingredients. Sometimes just a variation of the few. I will definitely be adventurous and try a potato with the beans & cheese.
M_Poppins128@reddit
Jacket potato on a rainy winter day is a great meal! Wow I didn't know that Canada use maple syrup and kind of wonder how it tastes now. Most Heinz beans contain sugar but I don't know how it compares in sweetness level. I'm glad you enjoyed my commentĀ
TotalBeginnerLol@reddit
American beans are like regular beans and then dump in half a bottle of BBQ sauce (which is mostly sugar). Theyāre a lot sweeter.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Very much enjoyed it. Even googled Heinz beanz pizza to see a picture. Looks like they released a frozen pizza in 2022. Is it like what you were talking about from the 90s? Love Canada and how they work maple into so many things.
M_Poppins128@reddit
Yes that's the one, the frozen pizza. Great back up meal to keep on standby . Maple syrup is so good I don't blame them
urtcheese@reddit
Pretty much. Branson Beans are often considered superior but that's a matter of preference. Some people melt cheddar through the beans while they ar evookint, I personally prefer to just grate cheddar on top. Dash of Lea & Perrin's also a good addition.
Joinourclub@reddit
I have always had Heinz as thatās what Iāve always had, and believed them to be the best. But I donāt think they taste how they used to , so a couple Of months ago I tried Branston. And they are so much better, and taste how I remember Heinz used to taste!
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I've never heard of Branston. I'll do some digging online to see if will be able to purchase them here. The British Heinz beanz have somewhat increased in popularity here - so they're easier to find now.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I do have some Lea & Perrin's. Excellent suggestion. I would not have thought of this.
Long_Repair_8779@reddit
Ok cheese and beans on toast is one of my favourite meals, my literal all time favourite meal is jacket potato with beans and cheese.
Without lee and perrins and hot sauce I donāt like it so much.. but mix those together, toast, jacket potato, whatever.. but butter, cheese, (Branston ideally) beans, Worcester sauce, any generic hot sauce ie tobasco type, itās an absolutely killer combination!
When youāre done with beans on toast jacket potato with various toppings is the next step. Very tasty with a good egg mayo
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Another person made the suggestion about the potato. It kinda sounds better than the toast. Gotta get some spuds the next time I'm shopping along with some new condiments.
jMeister6@reddit
You wonāt regret it man. Just a few splashes in a full size can.
BonesJonesBabowski@reddit
Oooh yes, Branston beans for the win. Add a knob of butter and some black pepper into the beans whilst heating, then pour over some buttery toast. Perfection.
Snoo3763@reddit
While some people prefer Branston, it feels right that Heinz should be the one to take his beans virginity.
Capital_Lynx_7363@reddit
No, it should be a special moment, not done by some inferior bean that doesn't know what it is doing
Christine4321@reddit
The grated cheddar MUST go underneath the beans !!!!!!!! š
trial_and_errer@reddit
Extra mature or vintage cheddar does take it to the next level. Highly recommend this. Dash of Lea & Perrinās is great too. Do a little experimentation and see what you like most.
jMeister6@reddit
That Lea & Perrinās touch is special. A small knob of butter also good. Or lashings of butter on the toast.
Ok_Economist7901@reddit
youāre overthinking it. itās just a tin of heated up beans on buttered toast. Thatās it. Iām not sure a Brit would eat it after 10 hours at work either.
flags_fiend@reddit
I genuinely had beans on toast for tea last night after 10 hours at work (although I don't butter the toast and I always add grated cheese on top) - it's quick and easy and a better tea than a bowl of cereal which is my other standard I'm home alone and can't be bothered to cook a meal.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
This is me! Quick and easy meals for the win. I have no time or energy to cook. Not to mention the clean up.
ZestyMonstera@reddit
Exactly it's a legitimate meal that people eat for breakfast lunch or dinner.
ZestyMonstera@reddit
Why not? After 10 hours of work you might be too tired to cook properly. In the autumn or winter that's a perfect dinner.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I do tend to overthink š¤. I'm usually too exhausted after working a long shift to make anything time consuming. This sounds simple and quick.
audigex@reddit
If you want it to actually be good, cook the beans on a low-medium heat in a small saucepan (stirring regularly) until the sauce thickens up a bit and the beans go mushy. Donāt just whack them in the microwave for a couple of minutes, that makes for shit council estate tier beans
A little butter on the toast (any bread is fine, donāt be too fancy - Iāve never had it on anything other than standard sliced white bread), then the beans, a sprinkling of grated cheese on top. Maybe a splash of Worcestershire sauce before you add the cheese but donāt go mad with it
Itās not meant to be over complicated, your equivalent is probably mac and cheese - quick, easy comfort food that you shouldnāt get carried away with
Opposite_Radio9388@reddit
š± Please never make beans on toast for me!
audigex@reddit
What, why not?
Do you want your beans to have the texture of half cooked pasta? You are not my people
PipalaShone@reddit
No to mushy beans!
RedChillii@reddit
Some people willnheat the beans in a jug in the microwave, the better way is to heat the beans slowly in a pan on the hob, keep stiring so the sauce / beans dont catch. The beans will get softer and the sauce will thicken up.
Gold-Perspective5340@reddit
Add a little bit of butter and some pepper; in some instances a little grated cheddar during the heating process. Plus whatever else you want: Worcestershire Sauce, Tobacco Sauce etc. They're your beans on toast, cook to taste
Scotto6UK@reddit
I imagine you mean Tabasco, unless there's an old Beanson & Hedges recipe I'm unaware of.
Gold-Perspective5340@reddit
Back in the day, it was traditional to eat that recipe when the UK Master's Snooker was on the TV ... sponsored by ...
Beerson_@reddit
Curry powder and chilli flakes for me.
_arch_tech@reddit
This is the best advice. DO NOT MICROWAVE, its criminal.
ExoticMangoz@reddit
The only real thing to think about is how you like your beans. Just pour them straight into a pan, nothing else, no water.
You can either heat them until they start to steam so they are hot but the sauce is till runny (my preferred option for beans on toast), or you can heat them longer while stirring to reduce them and thicken the sauce (possibly more common? Not sure. All I know is that this is how beans should be served with a full English breakfast).
kiradax@reddit
I do eat it when I'm tired bc its easy
Unlucky_Mammoth_2947@reddit
You would totally have it after a long shift, its quick
Alternative_Head_416@reddit
We have beans on toast for tea probably once a fortnight in our house, sometimes more frequently sometimes less.
Robyn2055@reddit
Agreed! Donāt even think about it, let alone over think! Chuck the beans in the pot ( I add a dash of ketchup for extra flavour), butter your toast, chuck the beans on the toast and voila. Dinner is served. I sometimes throw some grated cheese on top because I love cheese!
YchYFi@reddit
I do sometimes but usually with a potato not toast. Easy meal.
lucylucylane@reddit
And cheese with chili sauce
Banes_Addiction@reddit
I think your bread is too fancy. It can be whatever bread you have but it's not traditionally on a "crusty sourdough".
Unfortunately I don't really know what bread you should buy in the US. Hearty white definitely sounds more accurate.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
That's exactly what I'm after. Simple and tasty. You've convinced me to just go with white bread.
kettlejuices@reddit
note - most american bread is much sweeter and cake-like than the bread commonly found in UK.
Staricakes@reddit
To add about the sweetness of most US white bread vs UK. I as a Brit who now lives in the US would recommend getting an Italian loaf. If you have an Aldi close by their L'oven Fresh Artisanal Bread is very close.
i_am_simple_bob@reddit
I started baking my own bread using a bread machine so I could have bread without sugar. You don't need a special recipe. Just don't put the sugar in.
spikewilliams2@reddit
Just a tiny bit for the yeast?
i_am_simple_bob@reddit
I don't think it's actually necessary for the yeast. I think that's a bit of a myth but I'm not expert. I experimented with reducing the sugar gradually over multiple bakes of the same recipe (oat and walnut, 25% whole wheat) and ended up at zero. I didn't see any impact on the rise or crumb. Just didn't taste sweet.
spikewilliams2@reddit
Maybe it gets it from the flour. I heard proving bread properly breaks down the gluten. Mass produced bread is basically whipped to aerate it
Time-Mode-9@reddit
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chorleywood_bread_process
Time-Mode-9@reddit
I never use sugar when making bread. You can activate with flour and water.Ā
Perfectly_Other@reddit
Just a point on the bread, typical american sliced bread is very sweet compared to british sliced bread as it has a much higher sugar/sweetener content.
If possible go with a more savory bread rather than one of the sweeter ones for the proper british taste combo
Nervous_Tourist_8699@reddit
Small point, it is Heinz Beanz, not Heinz Beans. Nothing else to add as the other comments covered it off. Personal preference is with grated vintage cheddar, Lea & Perrins and a dash of tabasco
MixPlus@reddit
Use real butter, and I like sourdough toast. If you can get your hands on some, HP Sauce on beans is VERY good. Choice of beans is contentious. I like Mr Organic beans rather than Heinz. Some people prefer Branstons.
Wasps_are_bastards@reddit
I add cheese.
spinningdice@reddit
Cook Beans (in a pan preferably, microwave beans always seem to go funny). pop on toast. Unless you're careful with portions the bread will go soggy and need a knife and fork to eat - trying to pick it up with end up disintegrating down your front.
If you want to spruce it up a little some Worcester sauce dabbed over, or a bit of grated (shredded?) cheddar on top elevates it while keeping it firmly in the quick and easy.
Other options - if you have a Breville sandwich toaster (makes sealed sandwiches) beans are great inside them with a little cheese or corned beef (which is from a tin, I think US calls something else corned beef), on a Jacket (baked) potato or just as a side (like egg, chips and beans).
GoodTato@reddit
The big problem people run into is wrong beans on wrong toast. Which it sounds like you've fixed already.
Don't worry much beyond that, it's simple food no need to overthink.
MintyPinkDreams@reddit
I love a bit of HP on beans on toast
WDeranged@reddit
Isn't American white bread basically cake compared to British white bread?
pajamakitten@reddit
That was an Irish law regarding the sugar content in one type of bread at Subway. Their bread is no worse than ours is.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I can't speak for actual British white bread, but I can agree with this. I lived in Germany as a student for a year, and American bread to their bread is as you described.
atomicshrimp@reddit
It's really important to get the right sort of baked beans in tomato sauce, but once you've got that part, the rest is very simple. Wholemeal toast is nicer IMO; I wouldn't personally recommend sourdough as it can tend to go a bit hard when toasted.
Grated cheese and black pepper on top of the beans on toast is nice.
Greatgrowler@reddit
A can of baked beans in tomato sauce on top of two slices of buttered white toast. I also add a fried egg, grated cheddar and a blob of HP.
Motor-Command-2680@reddit
I like to add cajun seasoning to mine or mixed herbs. Some cheese too.Ā
JeffSergeant@reddit
Garam Masala or Jamaican Curry powder are nice too.Ā Ā
moongazingclaire@reddit
For me the beans need to be well cooked. A lot of people just heat them through in a few minutes but I'd always found that isn't enough to get that lovely melt-in-the-mouth texture. I've also (over the years) realised that any cheap supermarket baked beans can be made better by adding seasoning (salt and pepper) whole cooking and again, cook them enough that they start to go a bit mushy. Need to watch and stir though and try to use a non stick smallish saucepan.
JeffSergeant@reddit
Definitely.Ā Ā The best beans are from the vat at the Asda cafe that's been recirculating since 1996
informalgreeting23@reddit
You also need to reduce that sauce. Hate a thin bean juice.
JeffSergeant@reddit
Personally I like to cook the beans for a while until the sauce starts to thicken.Ā Ā The best beans are bulk-cooked in cafĆ©'s which gives the sauce more texture and a better mouth feel.
Bad beans taste like warm bullets in a watery sauce
Time-Mode-9@reddit
Basically, names on toast is literally that. (With butter on the toast).
You can pimp it up a bit with a dash of Worcester sausage, or chilli sauce and /or some grated cheddar.
MrMonkeyman79@reddit
Don't overthink it, we don't.
Heat some baked beans, toast some bread. Apply butter or marge to bread, apply beans, eat.
There you go.Ā
Beans on toast is not placed on some sort of pedestal in the uk, its just a quick and easy meal.
APiousCultist@reddit
You take heated beans, you put them on (probably buttered) toast. That's the simplest part of the equation.
If you want a non-underwhelming experience then I'd go with sourdough and melt some grated cheese on top too. Could optionally add chili powder or other seasoning to the beans too. But at it's core it's mostly what it sounds like (minus American baked beans having a different flavor profile).
skibbin@reddit
I stopped making beans on toast once I learned how to boil an egg. That's the culinary level of beans on toast. It's what you eat when you have nothing else, not a culinary delight to be exported to the world. You're likely to be disappointed by beans on toast.
Heinz beans on crispy buttered toast is your blank canvas. Everything else is either a personal choice, and experiment or last resort as you've got nothing else. Some ideas:
There are no rules. Only what you have in the cupboard until your dole money comes through.
CuppaTea_Digestive@reddit
Always Marmite on the toast, adds such a wonderful savoury taste. Also goes great with the cheese. Add a fried egg, ooh yeah, dinner.
Banes_Addiction@reddit
It's gentrification gone mad.
skibbin@reddit
Oops, you;re not supposed to know about that
AnneKnightley@reddit
No fancy bread, just toast and butter, put the beans on top and then add grated mature cheddar.
Willing_Coconut4364@reddit
Put a tin of beans in a sauce pan and turn on the heat.Ā Toast two slices of thick bread.Ā Butter toast.Ā Put toast on plate.Ā Put beans on toast.Ā Add brown sauce as needed.Ā
For bonus fun, poach an egg.Ā
Able-Angle1@reddit
Texture is important, the beams should be slightly stewed and I use thin sliced wholemeal bread, toast it and let it cool a little in a toast rack so it doesn't go immediately soggy when you pour the beans in, then arrange in such a way so that the beams don't completely cover the toast, I enjoy the range of textures from soggy bean soaked toast in the middle but with an abundance of crispy toast around the outside. Then slap a shed load of chili sauce on the top and lashing s of freshly ground black pepper.
Adventurous_Way_2660@reddit
1.You can go beans on toast. 2.Beans beside toast so its not soggy 3.Add a strong grated cheddar cheese 4. Add grates cheddar cheese and some Worcestershire sauce
It's really a snack.or lazy can't be asked dinner. Sourdough is nice but not traditional it would be toasted white. No real.rules tbh. Unlike full English breakfast.
Druid_at_heart@reddit
Cook them slowly and on low heat so they thicken up, and lots of black pepper, toast should be medium well, and a friend egg with a runny yolk tops it off! (If you don't eat quickly put your beans next to the toast)
Dangerous_Bed2566@reddit
We add in a knob of butter, mixed herbs and Worcestershire sauce. Bloody yumĀ
Sirlacker@reddit
I mean most people won't have beans on toast as a meal. It's usually something you do when you REALLY can't be bothered cooking or you don't have anything else left in.
Personally, I would and do eat beans on toast more than the average person. But I'm an outlier.
You then have to remember that your standard bread and your baked beans are completely different to ours.
So what you're going to get is a meal that on paper sounds the same, but tastes drastically different.
You'll need to source UK baked beans and UK bread, or make your own bread.
CoffeeIgnoramus@reddit
The hype around beans on toat is so weird. It's not some delicacy. It's one of those easy quick comforts. It's not going to blow your mind, but it's also a solid easy small meal. Like a basic cheese toasty might feel.
Toast, butter, heated baked beans. There are lots of variations, adding cheese or a bit of something to the beans as they heat up... but beans on toast is basic.
surfermark99@reddit
Cheap white bread not that fancy sourdough stuff. Nice but of Kingsmill or Hovis.
Toast the bread and butter it. Bit of grated cheese on the toast. Heat the tin of beans for 2mins in the microwave, 3mins if I want them more jammy.
Pour them on. More grated cheese on top.
The cheese is always mature cheddar.
Two whole bits of toast with beans on top of them. Knife and fork needed.
Or slice the toast diagonal and put them round the edges with beans in the middle of the plate. Use the toast to scoop up the beans.
Crazy-Finding-2436@reddit
If you are living in the US your problem will be to aquire decent bread.
Obvious-Water569@reddit
It's really not that deep. nor is it some kind of national delicacy. It's a quick, cheap (though not if you're having to use imported beans) struggle meal.
Heinz beans, white toast (not that sweet American bread) with butter. Add grated cheese if you want.
That's it.
caarl0s@reddit
You cannot go wrong with some extra mature cheddar and red Leicester grated into the beans as well.
Has to be real butter on the toast, and lots of it.
lilcheese840@reddit
Iāve not had beans on toast in years. Used to eat it a lot for breakfast when I was younger. For me it was four slices of toast, all buttered, grated cheese on top. Stack two of the cheesy toast slices on top of the other two and pour the heated Branstons (gotta be those, not the imposter Heinz) beans on top. Crack/sprinkle some salt and pepper, throw more cheese on for good measure. Beans on toast with a lovely cheese pull
Sk3wen@reddit
Look into Welsh rarebit also
Crivens999@reddit
Doesnāt have to be big crusty bread. Standard sliced white bread is fine. Preferable in my case. Make sure you use two slices, both buttered well. Iāve heard American bread can be really sweet, so may have to hunt around. Also make sure the beans arenāt some special low salt/sugar variety. Standard Heinz Baked Beanz (yes itās spelt like that). Also cook the beans a little more than expected. You want a little thickness to the sauce.
Final pro tip: stack one slice of bread on top of the other. Then pour the beans over the top. Eat sections of it containing both slices. Wife always had hers side by side, like a lot of people, and pour evenly over both. Many years later she finally tried it my way, and admits mine is better. Canāt say way, maybe something about not over beaning both slices, and you get more toast and butter taste, dunno, but itās better.
Princes_Slayer@reddit
For your first time, just have the beans and buttered toast. Everyone saying āadd this and thatāā¦no-one did that for their first time. You do that later down the line as your tastebuds want extra.
Toast your bread. It doesnāt have to be fancy (again, none of us started with fancy bread), but our generic sliced white bread is very different from US generic sliced bread. If you enjoy sourdough toast go for it, but I find it too crisp.
Heat beans on low temp in a saucepan on the stove/hob. Stirring regularly. You mention Heinz and their tomato sauce the beans are in is quite runny, so a slow heat and stir means the beans break a little and release their starch which thickens the sauce.
And thatās it. Buttered toast and pour the hot beans on top.
Try your first bite with the basic composition.
You could have extra bits to add on the side. Maybe a little freshly grated mature cheddar and sprinkle it on the next bite. Maybe Worcestershire sauce or salt & pepperā¦maybe even try a little ketchup or A1 sauce (I believe itās the closest to our HP brown sauce) on a bite (my husband adds extra sauces to his beans on toast, the heathen!)
Ignore people who say things like āpeople wouldnāt eat it after a 10 hour shiftāā¦people eat beans anytime depending on whether they need a comfort food, a quick meal, a budget meal or like meā¦what we ate after getting married during covid when we could yet go to restaurants. People eat beans on toast for breakfast, lunch, dinner or supper (quantities will vary). For me, I actually crave it if Iāve not had it a while. My husband is an engineer and will happily eat it for his evening meal after working on infrastructure.
Oster-P@reddit
Lightly simmer the beans and keep stirring them until the sauce thickens a little.
MrJones-@reddit
If you want to elevate this put a potato scone on top of the butter toast then add beans.
Careless-Abroad9978@reddit
Splash of Worcester sauce in the pan and grated cheese on top
sihasihasi@reddit
Not sourdough. That's a fad which I heartily hope will fade
WGD23@reddit
It needs grated cheddar on top
SkipperTheEyeChild1@reddit
Lots of salted butter.
Resipsa100@reddit
Also have steak bake from Gregās to accompany sold in bulk at Iceland š
doc1442@reddit
Youāre overthinking this.
Get some bread. Any bread (note actual bread, not American cake bread). Get beans. Heat beans, either on the stove or in the microwave. Toast bread. Put beans on bread. Add Hendoās (or Worcecseccsceccstyre sauce if you hate yourself).
Eat.
Many add butter to the bread. I do not, personally. You can also add pepper, or salt (again I do not, especially given the salt content in the beans and Hendoās).
Altruistic_Lies@reddit
The butter has to melt on the toast before adding the beans, also get beans and sausages, levels it up. I also use some extra mature cheddar for topping it off. It's not meant to be tedious or meticulous, it's a meal for a long day or a lazy day, comfort food.
ORF1Live@reddit
Grated cheese on the beans.
The butter on the toast should be salted butter.
No-Decision1581@reddit
Straight out of the tin on to the toast and add cheese
Geezer-McGeezer@reddit
Heinz beans, brown bread, butter. Grated cheddar cheese on top, then black pepper (from a mill).
Livelih00d@reddit
Heat in a saucepan rather than the microwave. Some brands, Heinz especially, are a bit too watery and benefit from reducing down a little.
rlaw1234qq@reddit
Sourdough bread, plenty of butter and plenty of hot baked beans
RareBrit@reddit
The one problem you have is that your bread has a distressingly vast quantity of sugar in it. So you need to find a proper sour dough or otherwise make your own. I bake my own with literally strong flour, water, salt, and yeast.
Other than than it's literally beans on toast. I do like to add a scrape of marmite and then some half-way decent cheddar grated over the top.
Thoughtful_giant13@reddit
Yes, itās as simple as that. Sometimes I put Marmite on the toast as well.
i_am_simple_bob@reddit
Save yourself some money on the beans. Heinz and Bush's vegetarian beans that are in the regular beans shelf of the grocery store are the same. I just had some a couple of hours ago.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Just looked them up in my grocer's app. Definitely half the price of the imported Heinz. The description is tangy tomato sauce with brown sugar and spices. Do you find them to be sweeter than Heinz? I haven't tried either.
i_am_simple_bob@reddit
They shouldn't have any sugar and spices. That's the wrong ones. However.... any beans on toast can be good.
WillbertJude@reddit
Prefer branston beans myselfā¦ crusty bread heavily buttered (real butter) beans on then grate some cheddar over the top šš»
Iminawideopenspace@reddit
For me, Heinz baked beans heated in saucepan very slowly. Donāt get the low sugar ones. Theyāre crap. I also add a bit of salt, and lots of freshly ground black pepper.
Pour onto buttered toasted bread. I then grate a good cheddar cheese on top, and have some brown sauce on the plate to dip the bread in.
Dinner of kings.
weirdchili@reddit
If you're in the US and your bread is full of sugar, get a loaf from a bakery. Toast a couple slices. Butter. Top with heated beans, cheese (mature cheddar) After that, toppings are optional, black pepper, chili sauce, and this may be blasphemy, but i like a bit of ketchup ontop too for a little added sweetness/ tang. You could add some Worcestershire sauce instead though which is more acceptable to most people, I dont eat fish and it contains anchovies usually, so ketchup it is
Betterthanthouu@reddit
Not entirely sure if this will apply in the US, but from my time living in Canada, shop brand generic baked beans were good enough along with some slightly more expensive wholegrain sliced bread, skip the wonder bread. Buttering the bread or adding grated cheddar and Worcestershire is an option as others have said.
What you're dealing with here is a lazy cheap comfort meal, you can really do whatever you want, I've made "beans on toast" with a bagel and American cheese because that's what I had available.
neverendum@reddit
Butter. Americans don't reflexively butter their toast so you should be aware that buttered toast is the norm, especially for beans on toast in the UK. So much butter, it melds with the bean juice and you have to tip your bean-filled folded toast half upwards so the tomoatoey buttery goodness doesn't ooze out and drip before if reaches your mouth.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I'm a firm believer in well buttered toast for sure š
Christine4321@reddit
Not sourdough bread! Just a normal loaf (Im assuming you have normal sliced loaves in the US?) 2 slices toasted, a load of butter and then either grated cheddar cheese with heated Heinz Beans on top, or just the Heinz beans. In our house we like adding the grated cheese.
happyhippohats@reddit
Yes you have the general idea (assuming you're using imported British beans not the US ones.
Don't set your expectations too high though, beans on toast is a staple here because it was cheap and widely available during WW2 rationing, not because it's actually tasty.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
Yes to the imported Heinz. Our main brand here is Bush's Beans with a cute speaking Golden Retriever who attests to the quality. To my knowledge, Heinz is only available as an import here. Funny though, they originally started here. I am eager to try regardless. Love trying new things.
TheLordMed@reddit
As others have said - hot beans on buttered toast is as simple as that and nice.
Pepper and a pinch of salt is worth it. Cooking the beans slower so they soften and the sauce thickens is a big improvement on microwaved. Grated cheese into or on top of is lovely. Something sharp and tangy like HP sauce, Worcestershire sauce, piccalilli (my favourite) or even just a splash of malt vinegar perks it up nicely
sjw_7@reddit
Its not really a meal for me but usually a late morning snack. But it is one that can mean I end up skipping lunch which effectively means its a meal.
Its very simple though just heat the beans and pour over a couple of bits of toast. You can butter the toast if you are feeling fancy.
But its also something you can elevate if you want to. Buttered sourdough toast is a great start but you can do a fair bit with the beans. I like to get them heating then add some butter, pepper, a good dollop of BBQ sauce and a tiny pinch of Cayenne pepper. Keep stirring and let the whole thing reduce until the beans have gone a bit mushy and its thickened up. Stir in some grated cheese or just put it on the toast and pour the beans over the top.
People will recommend Branston beans and the are nice but Heinz is the standard and you cant go wrong there.
Easy-Plant-8783@reddit
Good quality white bread, not that factory chemical shite you get in America, Brantson beans, salted butter and HP sauce.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
You're also šÆ on the white bread here. It is nothing but chemicals and preservatives.
mrcushtie@reddit
That's probably why you're seeing recommendations for sourdough sometimes: that's too posh for "proper" beans on toast, but I've not found an American equivalent to cheap British sliced white bread.
That said, it's fine to use sourdough bread. It's not like anyone ever said "oh god, this bread is too fancy and overpowers the taste of the beans". This isn't going to light up the universe as the Greatest Meal ever, but it's high in protein, it's high in fibre, it's one of those reliable choices when you need a meal and don't want to make a huge effort.
Off topic, but I discovered the joys of baked eggs last year. Fifteen minutes in the oven at 375Ā°, and you get very close to a fried egg without any effort. Now, you might say "are you wise, who has trouble frying an egg?" but you have to stand over the pan paying attention. Bake an egg, you can do something else for 15 minutes and get the same result (or stick it on your beans and toast) which has been a lifesaver for me on busy mornings. Egg rant over, back to regular baked bean programming...
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I've never tried HP sauce, but have been curious. I have seen it at the grocery with the imported food. Might have to give it a go! Nice suggestion š
Gold-Perspective5340@reddit
HP ftw. Daddies is good but HP is the one
greenpowerman99@reddit
Cheddar cheese is a common enhancement, either on the toast before the beans, or grated onto the hot beans.
Payne_by_name@reddit
Alternative take but I prefer my beans to the side of the toast. Means I don't get soggy bread and a better more secure 'platform' of toast to place the beans on when I bring it up to my mouth.
Hefty_Tip7383@reddit
Beans (means hienz) Toast
Glittering_Spring465@reddit
Heat up beans & toast normal white bread. Slap butter on toasted bread. Beans atop. Cheese/hp sauce too if youāre feeling fancy.
tomtink1@reddit
I like mine with plenty of butter on my toast and some ground black pepper on top.
JacobMarley86@reddit
Hovis bread toasted. Hot Heinz Beans.
Job done. No butter or any of that other flash nonsense.
That being said Iāve only had it a couple of times in my life.
Stefgrep66@reddit
I can think if a thousand things I would eat before beans on toast.
Soggy toast isn't my idea of a nutritious meal at any time of the day thanks š«¤
gemgem1985@reddit
It's really not that serious, but I always have some cheese and a good helping of hot sauce on mine.
smellthecoffeebeans@reddit
Add a fried egg and hot sauce, and you have a filling meal
ManOfTheBroth@reddit
Cheese. When it melts in and is stretching all through the hot tomato sauce, incredible.
mylovelyhorsie@reddit
Marmite on the toast before the beans š
PomPomBumblebee@reddit
The basic way is the best way (beans, butter/ marg on a decent slice of toast). I like my bread cut from a crusty loaf but frankly as long as it holds it's form well when toasted and covered in beans and tomato/ bean juice it's gonna be good. Don't use cheap untoasted bread unless that's part of the taste for you.
The only add ones I would consider is a bit of ground black pepper, lea and Perrins or a bit of cheese. That's to make it a bit gormet but frankly, like a fish finger sandwich, if you are in the mood for that dish then basic is gonna be good enough.
The only hurdle you are going to get is what beans to use. Historically cheap beans could have too much watery sauce and not enough beans or the sauce was not seasoned well (used to be too salty as a kid, sometimes it's way to bland). Make sure it's cooked enough to make the sauce much thicker than water so it doesn't destroy your toast.
I very rarely eat beans on toast as my husband is not a fan and especially doesn't like the smell but I like to have it at work sometimes or when he is away occasionally. Over the years I have preferred Branstons over Heinz if you have to chose a brand but frankly as long as you are careful about checking it's not too watery, with seasoning most cheap versions are good to go.
I'm actually excited about the idea of having some soon, my husband is attending an event soon for a few days so I'll be able to make this for myself (he mainly cooks and I don't complain as I'm a rubbish cook) without much worry!
Posy96@reddit
You eat it with a knife and fork - you donāt pick up the toast. I enjoy a little Marmite spread on the toast before adding the beans or a sprinkling of strong cheddar.
PastafarianFSM@reddit
Some buttery scrambled egg with it rounds it out quite nicely too.
spac3nvad3r@reddit
After you put the beans on the toast, let it go soggy before you eat it
RelativeBig2090@reddit
White bread toasted so it's dark brown Salted butter Beans cooked so the beans just start to mush and the sauce is thickening. Goes well with a couple rashers of bacon and/or fried egg. HP sauce on the side for the win.
PvtRoom@reddit
wake up. have breakfast. put clothes on. go out and walk, for at least 3 hours. preferably in poor weather. try to get physically tired.
get home, it's lunchtime.
toast, butter, pour over hot beans. eat.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
I can do this! š
CarpeCyprinidae@reddit
Just FYI - Beans on Toast was what we had for dinner several days in a row towards the end of the month, on the last of our parents salaries before payday. the bread might have been going stale but toasting it concealed that.
its not a delicacy. Its a reminder of the point where poverty really hits you. Most of us do NOT have fond memories of this meal and will view this thread as being in incredibly poor taste
Classic_Mammoth_9379@reddit
Itās a cheap meal for sure and whilst Iām sure you are not alone in the way you see it, that view is far from universal. To me is just a simple comfort food
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
That's what I've read...a simple comfort food for many Brits. Not everyone is gonna love the same thing. I just have a desire to try it. I'm 43... Grew up very poor. I'm able to somewhat afford what I want now. However, sometimes a dish of overcooked rice with butter and sugar really hits the spot for me because that's all my mother could cook sometimes when I was very young. It isn't fancy - but I would eat it gladly then and now instead of an overpriced steak.
elvisonaZ1@reddit
As an Englishman of 64 years hereās how I do mine.
Any white bread toasted, personally I let it cool for a minute before spreading butter just so it doesnāt instantly all melt into the bread, (just my personal preference).
Heinz baked beans into a saucepan on the hob, NOT in the microwave, full heat stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until it starts to bubble, then turn the heat partially down to keep it simmering (bubbling slightly), continue for maybe 2 or 3 minutes until they have gone soft. Pour them out over your 2 slices of buttered toast.
I love grated cheese on top but if you want to keep it basic then thereās no need.
xcluesif@reddit (OP)
My kinda guy! That's how I do my toast. Let it cool slightly then butter. No microwave for sure. Much appreciated! Very nice and detailed suggestion on the beans.
TywinHouseLannister@reddit
lol - is it satire? It's a cheap nutritional meal - nobody really hates it, nobody really raves about it either.. it just exists.
FamSands@reddit
Just heated beans on your choice of bread thatās buttered. If you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of grated cheese & maybe some dried chives.
We had it for dinner. Another basic-bitch Brit meal is ham, egg & chips!
Lego-105@reddit
It's as simple as you've done it. If you want to add cheese, pickle or Worcestershire sauce, you can do that, but just have it as you've done it first, plain, and go from there with whatever you fancy.
rtrs_bastiat@reddit
Yep, simple as that. People find ways to tart it up but honestly for first time I'd stick to that, wouldn't even bother with cheese.
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