Sweet Heat Baked Beans

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Cook the bacon in a large ovenproof saucepan or Dutch oven until the fat is rendered and the bacon is crisp, about 7 minutes, then set aside to drain on a paper towel. Add the onion to the pan and cook until softened, 8 to 10 minutes.

Add the beans, molasses, tomato sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic powder, 1/4 cup water and salt and pepper to taste and stir to combine well. Let the mixture simmer for a minute or so. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, until the beans are very tender and dark and the sauce is thick, 1 1 /2 to 2 hours.

Transfer to a serving dish and top with Candied Jalapenos and bits of bacon.

Candied Jalapenos:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Thinly slice the jalapenos and place in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets.

Combine the brown sugar, granulated garlic, mustard, cayenne pepper and salt in a small bowl. Brush the slices of jalapeno with the olive oil. Sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over the top. Bake until the jalapenos are crispy, 20 to 25 minutes. Set aside to cool.