Old-Fashioned Salted Beans

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Bines: A friendly Quebec tradition

A must-have dish for gatherings

Bines , also known as fèves au lard , are a classic at Quebec brunches and sugar shack meals. This comforting dish has been part of Quebec culture for centuries, bringing families and friends together around the table to share warm moments. Whether for big holidays, Sunday brunches or sugar shack meals, bines hold a special place in the hearts of Quebecers.

A nutritional richness

The beans used in bines, often navy beans, are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. They provide a nutritious base that, combined with salty pork, creates a dish that is both filling and flavorful. This combination makes them a popular choice for hearty meals that can sustain long days of work or play.

A dish adapted to everyone's tastes

Traditionally, bines are sweetened with maple syrup or molasses, making them ideal for those who prefer sweet flavors. However, white bines , which are less sweet or unsweetened, allow diners to customize their plate by adding their preferred amount of sweetener directly to their bowl. This flexibility makes bines a versatile dish, enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their taste preference.

A living culinary heritage

Every Quebec family has its own bines recipe, passed down from generation to generation, with variations that reflect local traditions and tastes. Whether sweet or savory, bines symbolize conviviality and attachment to Quebec's culinary roots. They also remind us of the importance of simplicity in cooking, where a few basic ingredients can create a dish rich in flavor and history.

Summary
🔍 Information	Details
⏱️ Preparation time	20 minutes
🍳 Cooking time	6 to 8 hours
⏲️ Total time	6 to 8 hours 20 minutes
🔧 Difficulty level	Easy
🍽️ Portions	8
🔥 Calories (approximate)	350 per serving

Ingredients
2 large onions, chopped 5 tablespoons dry mustard ½ bag of small dried white beans (about 450 g), washed (do not soak) About 300 g of pork roll in sweet brine 4 cups of water 1/4 cup molasses (to taste) Salt (very little, because the roll is already salty) and pepper to taste Maple syrup (optional, add to the bowl when serving)

Instructions

Preparing the beans: Rinse the white beans under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside. Preparation of pork: In a pot, bring the pork roll to a boil with the 4 cups of water over high heat for 20 minutes to release its flavors. Then, set the meat aside on a plate. Preparation of the mixture: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large casserole dish or slow cooker, arrange the washed beans, chopped onions, salt and pepper to taste. Adding mustard and molasses: Add dry mustard, molasses, and salt and pepper to taste to the salted water in the pork roll. Pour this water into the casserole dish. Place the pork roll cut into slices on top. Slow cooking: Cover the casserole dish or slow cooker and place it in the center of the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Then, lower the temperature to 200°F (95°C) and cook for 6 to 8 hours. Check after 3 to 4 hours of cooking to make sure there is enough water. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little hot water. The beans should be tender, but still slightly firm. Finishing and service: Once the beans are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, directly in bowls. Although these beans are salty, you can offer maple syrup on the side for those who want to add a touch of sweetness to their portion.

Nutritional Information per Serving
Nutrient	Quantity
Calories	350 kcal
Proteins	15 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Sugars	10 g
Fibers	8 g
Lipids	18 g
Saturated fatty acids	6 g
Sodium	700 mg
Health note	7/10 Highlights: High in fiber, good source of plant-based protein.

Questions & Answers: Everything you need to know about Bines

Q: What types of beans are used to make beans?
A: Beans are traditionally prepared with small white beans, also called Navy beans. These beans are rich in vegetable protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a choice ingredient for a nourishing and balanced dish.

Q: Can the bines be prepared in advance and reheated later?
A: Yes, beans can be made ahead of time. In fact, they often taste better the next day because the flavors continue to develop. To reheat, simply place them in a Dutch oven over low heat or in a 200°F (95°C) oven until heated through. You can add a little water if they seem too dry.

Q: Do beans always have to be sweetened?
A: No, bines can be prepared without sugar, which gives "white bines" or salted bines. This version allows everyone to sweeten their dish according to their preferences, by adding maple syrup or molasses directly to their bowl at the time of serving.

Q: Can you freeze the beans?
A: Yes, beans freeze very well. Once cooked and cooled, transfer them to airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

Q: What can you serve bines with?
A: Bines are delicious served with fresh household bread or rye bread. They also pair very well with eggs, bacon, or sausages for brunch, or with a green salad for a lighter meal. At the sugar shack, they are often accompanied by other traditional dishes such as crepes and ham.