Baked beans recipes that turn a cheap pantry staple into a filling family meal

Affordable, versatile and surprisingly filling, a can of baked beans can form the foundation of a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch or an easy family dinner.

There comes a point at the end of the month when that forgotten can of baked beans sitting in the cupboard suddenly becomes one of the most valuable ingredients in the kitchen.

For many South Africans, baked beans are a braai side dish staple. We mix it with a dollop of mayonnaise for a quick bean salad, stirred into chakalaka, or simply heat it and serve it on toast.

But this humble pantry essential is capable of much more.

Affordable, versatile and surprisingly filling, a can of baked beans can form the foundation of a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch or an easy family dinner.