In Malaysia, baked beans are commonly associated with the American-style big breakfast or full English breakfast, paired with a generous portion of eggs, sausage, bacon and mushrooms. However, baked beans can actually be consumed in so many delicious ways that go beyond breakfast.
Ayam Brand has curated a series of non-breakfast baked beans recipes to introduce the next generation of consumers to the nutritional value, versatility, convenience and deliciousness of these protein and fibre-packed beans.
Why baked beans, though?
Baked beans are high in plant protein and in fibre, making them an ideal affordable protein source for vegetarians[1], and non-vegetarians alike. The protein in baked beans helps with muscle growth, increasing strength, recovery, and repair after a workout. Due to the high protein content, baked beans could be a perfect alternative to meat for vegetarians. The high fibre content in baked beans helps to slow down the absorption of blood sugar, provides a feeling of satiety and gives a steady stream of energy throughout the day[2].
They also contain iron, lycopene and folate[3]. Baked beans in tomato sauce are a rich source of iron. Iron deficiency may lead to feeling tired, lack of focus and low energy levels and in severe cases could result in anaemia. It is rich in lycopene – an antioxidant extracted from the tomato. Lycopene can reduce cell damage through its antioxidant benefits.
For women planning their pregnancy, adding baked beans to their diet three months before conception can add folate which helps to naturally increase vitamin B levels. Folate has been shown to reduce the probability of neural tube defects in babies. Baked beans are virtually free of saturated fat – a delicious way of reducing the risk of heart disease.
Clearly, adding baked beans to your diet can do so much good!
Try these recipes starring Ayam Brand™ Baked Beans to go beyond breakfast!
Sardine Baked Beans with Lempeng
Prep time: 10 minutes, Cook time: 15 minutes, Serves: 4 pax
Ingredients:
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp oil
2 tbsp chopped onion
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp chopped big green chillies
1 tbsp chilli paste
1 can Ayam Brand Sardine 300g
1 pack Ayam Brand Chopped Tomatoes
1 can Ayam Brand Baked Beans 320g
Method:
1. Heat oil in a pan and add chopped onions, minced garlic and a few green chillies to the pan. Stir until fragrant.
2. Next, stir in the Ayam Brand Chopped Tomatoes and chilli paste, and cook a while on low heat until the oil splits.
3. Pour in Ayam Brand Sardine and Ayam Brand Baked Beans. Give a stir occasionally until well combined.
4. Before turning off the heat, you can add salt for taste.
This dish goes well with lempeng and the leftovers could be reheated to consume for dinner. Bon Appetit!
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[1] Ayam Brand Baked Beans include onion in the sauce
[2] https://www.rd.com/health/conditions/health-benefits-of-beans/
[3] https://www.grownups.co.nz/life/food-wine-beverages/baked-beans/
