Hot Dog Roll with Baked Beans

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Baked Beans

   • In a medium saucepan or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
   • Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat in the pan. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
   • Stir in the rinsed navy beans, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked bacon back to the pot and mix everything together well.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken and the flavors will meld.
2. 2

   Cook the Hot Dogs

   • While the beans are simmering, heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
   • Place the hot dogs in the hot pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are heated through and have a nice char on all sides.
3. 3

   Toast the Buns

   • Using a pastry brush, apply the melted butter to the flat outer sides of the New England-style buns.
   • Place the buns, buttered-side down, onto a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Toast for 1-2 minutes per side, until they are golden brown, crisp, and fragrant.
4. 4

   Assemble and Serve

   • Carefully open each toasted bun and place a cooked hot dog inside.
   • Serve immediately with a generous side of the warm homemade baked beans.
   • Offer classic toppings like yellow mustard and additional chopped raw onion on the side.