Classic British Beans on Toast Recipe

Tips for the Best Beans on Toast

• ✔ Quality bread matters – farmhouse-style prevents fogginess.
• ✔ Heat canned beans gently – avoid boiling to keep texture.
• ✔ Canned beans work just fine – White haricot beans or even navy beans can be used straight from the tin with a simple tomato-based sauce.
• ✔ Customize – add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, or a poached egg.
• ✔ Heinz fans? –  mix in a teaspoon of sugar and a splash of Worcestershire sauce when heating canned beans
• ✔ Healthier option? Use whole-grain bread and low-sugar beans.
• ✔ Storing leftovers – keep beans in an airtight container for 3 days; toast fresh before serving.

What You Need

• 2 slices white farmhouse-style bread – Swap for wholegrain or sourdough for a healthier twist.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – Use margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative.

For Heinz Baked Beans Version

• 1 can (400g) Heinz baked beans – Or any store-bought baked beans you prefer.

For Homemade Beans Version

• 1 can (400g) white haricot beans – Substitute with navy beans or cannellini beans.
• 2.5 tbsp rapeseed oil – Sunflower or olive oil works well too.
• 100g onions, chopped – Use shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder for a milder flavor.
• 1 garlic clove, grated – Swap with ½ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes – For a smoother texture, use passata instead.
• 1 tbsp tomato purée – In a pinch, ketchup makes it sweeter and brighter.
• 75g soft dark brown sugar – Replace with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
• 100ml red wine vinegar – Apple cider vinegar or malt vinegar are great substitutes.

How to Make Beans on Toast

1. Prepare the Beans

• For Heinz baked beans: Skip to Step 3.
• For homemade beans: Drain and rinse the haricot beans.

2. Make the Homemade Sauce (Skip this step if using Heinz beans.)

• Heat oil in a pan. Add bacon (if using) and onions, frying until golden.
• Stir in garlic, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, sugar, and vinegar.
• Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the drained beans, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 10 minutes.

3. Toast the Bread

• Toast 2 slices of farmhouse-style bread until golden.
• Spread butter on the toast to prevent sogginess.

4. Heat the Heinz Beans (Skip this step if using homemade beans—they’re already warm!)

• Shake the can before opening to ensure even sauce distribution.
• Heat gently in a pan for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Do not boil to preserve texture.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Place the buttered toast on a plate.
• Spoon warm beans over the toast.
• (Optional) Sprinkle with grated cheese and let it melt for 2 minutes.

Saving the Toast for Later

• If you want to prep ahead: Store leftover beans separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan before serving.
• Toast fresh bread rather than reheating already-buttered toast.

Serving the Baked Beans on Toast

How you serve baked beans on toast depends on your mood and family traditions. For example, Saturday might mean fried eggs and baked beans on toast with a side of crispy bacon!

Here’s how most Brits enjoy their beans on toast:

• • Classic: Simply served with a cup of tea.
  • With a side of eggs: A poached or fried egg makes it heartier.
  • Cheesy: A layer of melted cheddar adds richness.

Health Info

Nutrition info is based on Heinz canned baked beans. Homemade versions may vary in macros depending on the ingredients used.

• Calories: 353
• Sugar: 17.6
• Sodium: 838.7
• Fat: 12.1
• Carbohydrates: 56.3
• Fiber: 8.8
• Protein: 11.9