Spicewalla's Ultimate BBQ Beans

Directions

1. Heat a dutch oven or large heavy bottom pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.

2. Add the diced bacon and sauté, stirring frequently, until crispy, about 5 minutes.

3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and place on a paper towel lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot. 

4. Add the diced onion and jalapeño, if using. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the jalapeño has softened, about 5 minutes. 

5. Add the minced garlic and Spicewalla Ultimate BBQ Rub of choice. Stir to combine and evenly coat the onion and jalapeño. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

6. Pour in the chicken stock, bean variety of choice and add the fried bacon back to the pot. Check to make sure that the beans are covered by about one inch of liquid. If you need more liquid, add more chicken stock or water. 

7. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low, cover and simmer for about 2 ½ - 3 hours until the beans are tender and fully cooked and the liquid has reduced by about two-thirds. 

8. Stir in the tomato paste, dark brown sugar, molasses and apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking. Feel free to sprinkle in more Spicewalla rub to kick up the flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!