A delicious and hearty bean stew with a smoky and tangy flavor, perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Dice the onion and bell pepper into small pieces.
Cut the vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, then remove and crumble.
Save the bacon grease for added flavor in the next step.
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain excess fat.
Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened.
Cook until the onions are translucent for the best flavor.
Combine the beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
Stir well to ensure the sauce coats all the beans evenly.
Add the cooked bacon, ground beef, and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker and stir.
Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 2 hours to blend the flavors.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.