The Bean Season

Well, its here. The time I start getting all reminiscent about our old family reunions. We haven’t had one (that I know of) since Grandma Perry died back in the ‘80s. Back in the day, we’d all gather at Liberty Park or Sugarhouse Park — aunts and uncles showing up with Tupperware containers, TV trays and aluminum folding chairs all tagged with magic marker on masking tape. Aunt Doris always brought the volleyball net and croquet set that she got from County Parks & Rec. Aunt Dorothy always whistled cheerily from her wheelchair. Uncle Lou always greeted me with a slug on the arm and a jolly “hello” in that British accent of his. 

I was n introvert and not too familiar with many of the relatives,  so the food was the star of the show. Grandma always brought Swedish meatballs, yellow cake with chocolate frosting, and a huge vat of Hawaiian Punch spiked with lemonade.

And these beans. Oh, these beans...

Grandma Perry’s Nothing-Fancy-but-Delicious-as-Hell-Baked Beans 

24 oz. can Pork and Beans, drained 

1/2 small onion, chopped 

1/2 green bell pepper, chopped 

1/3 cup catsup 

1/3 cup molasses 

2 tbs. prepared mustard 

2 tbs. brown sugar 

Spray baking dish with non-stick spray and bake for approximately 1 hour at 350°