My husband’s heritage is French Canadian. Many years ago, I decided to master the art of French Canadian Baked Beans, as a treat for him. Not only did I develop the perfect recipe through trial and error, I also bought an authentic Bean Pot, to add to the experience.

There’s something undeniably comforting about French Canadian baked beans. Maybe it’s the rich, smoky flavour of the pork or the perfect balance of sweetness from the maple syrup and molasses. Whatever it is, these beans feel like home—whether you're cozying up on a cold winter evening or celebrating a special occasion. Known as haricots durs or fèves au lard in French, they’re a beloved classic in Quebec and a must-have at many family dinners.

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. It takes just a few basic ingredients—dried beans, pork, maple syrup, and molasses—and transforms them into a savoury-sweet, slow-cooked delight that’s packed with flavour. It's a perfect example of how French Canadian cuisine combines humble ingredients with a little patience to create something extraordinary.

A Little History of French Canadian Baked Beans

French Canadian baked beans have a long history that ties together French culinary tradition and the resourcefulness of early settlers. When French colonists arrived in Canada, they quickly adapted to the local ingredients, especially beans, which were abundant and perfect for long, harsh winters. Pork, particularly salted pork, was another staple that could be preserved for months, making it a go-to protein for the cold season.

Over time, beans and pork became a central part of the diet in Quebec, and when maple syrup was added, it gave the dish a distinctly Canadian flavour. Slow-cooked for hours, these beans became more than just a way to fill up—they became a celebration of local produce and the ingenuity of the early settlers.

What You Need to Make French Canadian Baked Beans

The ingredients are simple, but the magic comes in the slow cooking that brings everything together. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dried Beans: Navy beans are traditional, but you can use other small white beans if you prefer.
Pork: Salt pork or smoked pork belly is classic. You can also use bacon or ham hocks, but salt pork gives it that signature savoury flavour.
Maple Syrup: This is the key to the dish’s sweet side and a nod to its Canadian roots.
Molasses: Adds a deep, rich flavour that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the beans.
Mustard: A little bit of Dijon mustard helps cut through the richness and adds a nice tang.
Salt & Pepper: For seasoning.

The Recipe for French Canadian Baked Beans

Ingredients:

2 cups dried navy beans
4 cups water (for soaking the beans)
1 lb salt pork or smoked pork belly, cut into chunks
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup maple syrup (dark maple syrup is best)
1/4 cup molasses
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
2-3 cups water or broth (to cover the beans while baking)

Instructions:

**Soak the Beans**: The night before you plan to cook the beans, rinse them and soak them in 4 cups of water for about 8 hours or overnight. This step is key for softening the beans and getting them ready for slow cooking.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) so it’s nice and warm when the beans go in.

**Sauté the Onion and Pork**: In a large oven-safe pot (like a Dutch oven), heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it softens. Then add the salt pork or smoked pork belly and cook for another 5 minutes, letting the pork brown and release all that delicious flavour.

Combine Everything: Add the soaked beans to the pot along with the maple syrup, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the beans are coated in that sweet, savoury mixture.

Add the Liquid: Pour in enough water or broth to cover the beans by about an inch. You’ll want the liquid to cook down and concentrate, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first—just make sure the beans are mostly covered.

Bake the Beans: Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil, then pop it in the oven. Let the beans bake for 3-4 hours, checking every once in a while to make sure they don’t dry out. If they do, just add a bit more reserved bean liquid or water. Stir occasionally, and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed.

Finish and Serve: When the beans are soft, and the sauce has thickened up into a rich, caramelized glaze, take them out of the oven. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavours meld together.

Enjoy: Serve the beans as a side dish or even as the main event. They're hearty and satisfying on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of dishes.

What to Serve with French Canadian Baked Beans

French Canadian baked beans are incredibly versatile and can complement all sorts of dishes. Here are some of my favourites to pair with them:

Roast Meats: The beans are fantastic alongside roast pork, ham, or even a juicy roast chicken. The richness of the beans balances out the savoury flavours of the meat.
Pâté Chinois: This French Canadian take on shepherd’s pie has layers of ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes. The richness of the pie pairs perfectly with the sweet-savory beans.
Tourtière: A traditional meat pie made with pork, beef, or game, tourtière has deep, savoury flavours that are beautifully complemented by the beans’ sweetness.
Grilled Sausages: Smoky sausages (whether traditional French or local Quebecois varieties) are a great match for baked beans. This is the ultimate comfort food combo!
Fresh Bread or Biscuits: For a simple, cozy meal, serve the beans with warm, crusty bread or soft, buttery biscuits. They’re perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Pickles or Sauerkraut: A little tang from pickles or sauerkraut is a nice contrast to the richness of the beans.
Salads: A fresh, zesty salad with a bright vinaigrette can cut through the richness and add a refreshing balance to the meal.

Final Thoughts

French Canadian baked beans are so much more than just a side dish—they’re a taste of history and a celebration of local ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a holiday feast or just because you’re craving some comforting, hearty food, these beans always deliver. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own—add a little extra maple syrup if you like it sweeter, or try using different types of pork for a unique twist. At the end of the day, it’s all about savouring the rich, comforting flavours that make French Canadian cuisine so special.

French Canadian Baked Beans: A Hearty Comfort Food

My husband’s heritage is French Canadian. Many years ago, I decided to master the art of French Canadian Baked Beans, as a treat for him. Not only did I develop the perfect recipe through trial and error, I also bought an authentic Bean Pot, to add to the experience.

A Little History of French Canadian Baked Beans

What You Need to Make French Canadian Baked Beans