📝 About This Recipe
A sophisticated evolution of a humble British comfort classic, this sandwich transforms the modest navy bean into a gourmet masterpiece. We simmer tender white beans in a rich, homemade smoky tomato and molasses reduction, layered between thick slices of buttery sourdough. It is the ultimate fusion of hearty legumes and artisan bread, offering a nostalgic yet refined experience that redefines the 'beans on toast' concept.
🥗 Ingredients
The Signature Bean Base
- 1.5 cups Navy Beans (Haricot) (cooked or canned, rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup Yellow Onion (finely minced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (grated or pressed)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (pimentón de la Vera)
The Savory Sauce
- 1/2 cup Tomato Purée (passata or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon Blackstrap Molasses (for deep color and earthiness)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce (use vegetarian version if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (for a sharp tang)
- 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (to balance the sweetness)
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Stock (to adjust consistency)
The Sandwich Assembly
- 4 slices Sourdough Bread (thick-cut, rustic style)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened for spreading)
- 1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Chives (finely chopped for garnish)
- 1 pinch Sea Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the minced onions for 5-7 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
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2
Add the grated garlic and smoked paprika to the onions. Stir constantly for 60 seconds until the spices become fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
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3
Pour in the tomato purée, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk together until the sauce is smooth and simmering.
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4
Gently fold in the navy beans. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the vegetable stock a tablespoon at a time.
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5
While the beans simmer, prepare your sourdough slices by spreading a generous layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
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6
Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to a jam-like consistency, season with salt and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper. Remove from heat.
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7
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, into the pan.
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8
Distribute half of the grated cheddar cheese onto the bread slices in the pan. This acts as a 'glue' for the beans.
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9
Spoon a thick layer of the warm baked bean mixture over the cheese, leaving a half-inch border at the edges to prevent overflow.
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10
Top with the remaining cheese and the other two slices of bread, butter-side up.
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11
Grill the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side. Use a spatula to press down gently, ensuring the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
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12
Remove from the skillet and let the sandwiches rest for 1 minute. This allows the filling to set so it doesn't spill out when sliced.
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13
Slice diagonally and garnish the exposed beans with freshly chopped chives before serving hot.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always grate your own cheddar; pre-shredded cheese is coated in starch and won't melt as smoothly into the beans. For a deeper flavor, make the bean mixture a day in advance to allow the spices to fully penetrate the legumes. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato base. Ensure your sourdough is at least 1/2 inch thick to support the weight of the beans without becoming soggy. Use a 'low and slow' approach when grilling the sandwich to ensure the center is hot without burning the crust.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crunchy sea salt kettle chips for a texture contrast. Pair with a crisp, cold Lager or a dry hard cider to cut through the richness of the molasses. A simple side salad of arugula with a lemon vinaigrette provides a bright, acidic balance. For the ultimate brunch experience, serve alongside a fried egg with a runny yolk. Enjoy with a hot cup of English Breakfast tea for the most authentic British feel.