July 13th marks National Beans 'N' Franks Day, encouraging everyone to whip up their favorite recipes during National Hot Dog Month. This simple yet delicious dish is quick to prepare and perfectly complements summertime barbecues. Get ready to enjoy this classic combo and celebrate #BeansNFranksDay in style!

Objectives

The primary objectives of National Beans 'N' Franks Day are:

1. Celebrate a Classic Dish: Honor and enjoy the nostalgic and comforting dish of beans and franks.
2. Promote Family Meals: Encourage families to come together and share a simple, hearty meal.
3. Highlight Culinary Creativity: Inspire people to experiment with different recipes and variations of beans and franks.

Popular Variations

1. Classic Beans 'N' Franks: Baked beans combined with sliced hot dogs, often seasoned with brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard.
2. BBQ Beans 'N' Franks: Beans and franks cooked with barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
3. Spicy Beans 'N' Franks: Adding hot sauce, jalapeños, or chili powder for a spicy kick.
4. Vegetarian Beans 'N' Franks: Using vegetarian or vegan hot dogs and baked beans for a plant-based version.
5. Gourmet Beans 'N' Franks: Incorporating gourmet sausages, bacon, and high-quality beans for an elevated take on the classic dish.

Celebrations and Activities

National Beans 'N' Franks Day is celebrated with various activities that highlight the enjoyment and versatility of this beloved dish:

1. Cooking at Home: Making beans and franks at home using favorite recipes or trying new variations.
2. Recipe Sharing: Sharing beans and franks recipes on social media, blogs, and community boards using hashtags like #BeansNFranksDay and #NationalBeansNFranksDay.
3. Family Meals: Gathering with family and friends to enjoy a meal of beans and franks together.
4. Picnics and Barbecues: Incorporating beans and franks into picnics, barbecues, and other outdoor gatherings.
5. Cooking Contests: Hosting or participating in cooking contests to create the best beans and franks dish.

How to Celebrate

1. Cook Beans 'N' Franks: Prepare a batch of beans and franks at home using a classic recipe or try a new variation.
2. Host a Meal: Invite friends and family over for a beans and franks meal, sharing the nostalgic dish and enjoying each other’s company.
3. Share on Social Media: Post pictures and recipes of your beans and franks creations on social media to inspire others.
4. Experiment with Recipes: Get creative in the kitchen by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors for your beans and franks.
5. Support Local Diners: Visit local diners or restaurants that serve beans and franks to celebrate the day.

Classic Beans 'N' Franks Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe to make classic beans and franks at home:

Ingredients:

• 4 hot dogs or franks, sliced
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) baked beans
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and chop the onions if using.
2. Cook the Hot Dogs: In a large skillet, cook the sliced hot dogs over medium heat until they are lightly browned.
3. Add the Beans: Add the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and onions (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors are well combined.
5. Serve: Serve the beans and franks hot, either on their own or with bread, cornbread, or rice.

Significance of National Beans 'N' Franks Day

National Beans 'N' Franks Day is significant because it celebrates a classic and comforting dish that has been a part of American cuisine for generations. By highlighting beans and franks, the observance encourages culinary creativity and the enjoyment of a simple, hearty meal.

The day also fosters a sense of nostalgia and community, as people come together to cook, share, and enjoy beans and franks. Through cooking at home, hosting family meals, and sharing recipes, National Beans 'N' Franks Day honors the enduring appeal and widespread popularity of this beloved dish.