Hawaiian Baked Beans recipe

Barbecues at our house are a sacred ritual, a symphony of smoky aromas and the happy chatter of friends and family. And no barbecue is truly complete without a generous serving of baked beans. For years, I stuck to the classic, smoky versions, but then, on a whim, I decided to infuse a little island spirit into our usual fare. Enter Hawaiian Baked Beans. Let me tell you, this recipe was a game-changer. The moment the sweet and savory aroma of pineapple, brown sugar, and smoky bacon mingled in the air, I knew we were onto something special. The beans themselves are incredibly tender, bathed in a luscious, slightly tangy sauce that’s both comforting and excitingly different. The chunks of juicy pineapple and savory bacon create a delightful textural contrast, while the subtle sweetness perfectly balances the smoky and savory notes. Even my most traditional barbecue purists were converted after the first spoonful. Hawaiian Baked Beans have become a must-have at every cookout, potluck, and family gathering. They are a vibrant, flavorful side dish that brings a touch of the islands to your table, no matter where you are. If you’re looking to elevate your baked bean game and add a tropical twist to your next meal, prepare to be transported to paradise with this recipe.

Hawaiian Baked Beans Ingredients: Island Flavors Unite

The secret to truly authentic and delicious Hawaiian Baked Beans lies in the harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky ingredients. This recipe is all about balancing those flavors to create a side dish that is both comforting and exciting. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the depth and complexity that makes these beans so irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to create this taste of the islands:

• Dried Navy Beans: 1 pound dried navy beans. Navy beans are the classic choice for baked beans due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors. You can also use Great Northern beans or cannellini beans as alternatives.
• Water: For soaking and cooking beans. Good quality water is essential for properly hydrating and cooking the beans.
• Bacon: 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced. Bacon is the cornerstone of flavor in baked beans, providing smoky, savory richness. Thick-cut bacon renders beautifully and adds substantial flavor.
• Yellow Onion: 1 large yellow onion, chopped. Onion provides a foundational savory sweetness and aromatic depth to the beans. Yellow onions caramelize nicely and contribute to the overall flavor profile.
• Green Bell Pepper: 1 green bell pepper, chopped. Green bell pepper adds a slightly sweet and vegetal note, as well as a pop of color and textural contrast. Red or orange bell peppers can also be used for a sweeter flavor.
• Canned Pineapple Chunks: 20 ounces canned pineapple chunks, undrained. Pineapple is the star of the Hawaiian twist, bringing sweetness, tanginess, and a tropical flavor that is essential to this recipe. Use pineapple chunks packed in juice, not syrup, to control the sweetness. Do not drain the juice, as it is part of the flavorful sauce.
• Brown Sugar: ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar. Brown sugar adds a deep molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during baking and complements the smoky and savory flavors. Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably, with dark brown sugar offering a richer molasses flavor.
• Molasses: ¼ cup unsulphured molasses. Molasses contributes a rich, dark, and slightly bitter sweetness that adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Unsulphured molasses is preferred for its pure flavor.
• Ketchup: ¾ cup ketchup. Ketchup provides a tangy tomato base for the sauce, adding acidity and umami that balances the sweetness and smokiness.
• Yellow Mustard: ¼ cup yellow mustard. Yellow mustard adds a tangy and slightly sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the beans and sauce. Dijon mustard can be used for a spicier kick, or even a grainy mustard for added texture.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: ¼ cup apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar provides acidity and brightness, balancing the sweetness and richness and adding a subtle fruity note. White vinegar can be used as a substitute, but apple cider vinegar offers a more complex flavor.
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons soy sauce. Soy sauce adds umami depth and savory complexity, enhancing the overall flavor profile and balancing the sweetness. Low-sodium soy sauce can be used to control the salt content. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Worcestershire sauce provides a complex savory and tangy flavor with hints of vinegar, molasses, and spices, adding depth and umami.
• Garlic Powder: 1 tablespoon garlic powder. Garlic powder provides a convenient and consistent garlic flavor throughout the beans. Fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute (about 3-4 cloves), but garlic powder disperses flavor more evenly in baked beans.
• Onion Powder: 1 tablespoon onion powder. Onion powder enhances the onion flavor and adds depth. Fresh onion is used as well, but onion powder adds another layer of consistent onion flavor throughout the beans.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Salt is crucial for enhancing all the flavors and balancing the sweetness. Adjust to taste, considering the saltiness of the bacon and soy sauce. Kosher salt or sea salt are recommended.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Black pepper adds a subtle spice and warmth, complementing the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred.

Ingredient Notes for Success:

• Bean Quality: Use high-quality dried navy beans. Look for beans that are uniform in size and color, and avoid any beans that look shriveled or damaged.
• Bacon Choice: Thick-cut bacon is recommended for its robust flavor and texture. You can use regular bacon, but thick-cut provides a more substantial smoky flavor. For a leaner option, you can use turkey bacon, but the flavor will be less intense.
• Pineapple Type: Canned pineapple chunks in juice are ideal. Avoid pineapple packed in heavy syrup, as it will make the beans overly sweet. Do not drain the pineapple juice; it is a key component of the sauce. Fresh pineapple can be used, but canned pineapple offers a consistent sweetness and texture that works well in baked beans, and the canning process tenderizes the fruit.
• Molasses Type: Unsulphured molasses is preferred for its pure flavor. Blackstrap molasses can be used for a very intense, slightly bitter flavor, but it may be too strong for some palates.
• Vinegar Choice: Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle fruity note. White vinegar can be used as a substitute, but apple cider vinegar enhances the Hawaiian flavor profile.
• Spice Level: This recipe is mildly flavored and not spicy. If you want to add a touch of heat, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Hawaiian Baked Beans Instructions: Step-by-Step to Island Flavor

Creating these delectable Hawaiian Baked Beans is a process that combines a little bit of hands-on preparation with the magic of slow baking, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. While there’s some waiting involved for soaking and baking, the active cooking time is minimal, making it a relatively easy recipe. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to bring these island-inspired beans to life:

Step 1: Soak the Navy Beans (8 hours or Overnight)

1. Rinse Beans: Place the dried navy beans in a large colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. Pick through the beans and remove any stones, debris, or shriveled beans.
2. Soak in Water: Transfer the rinsed beans to a large pot. Add enough cold water to cover the beans by at least 2-3 inches. The beans will expand as they soak, so ensure there is ample water.
3. Soak Time: Cover the pot and let the beans soak at room temperature for at least 8 hours, or ideally overnight. Soaking softens the beans, reduces cooking time, and helps to remove indigestible sugars, making them easier to digest.
4. Quick Soak Method (Optional): If you are short on time, you can use the quick soak method. Place rinsed beans in a pot, cover with water by 2-3 inches, bring to a boil, and boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour. Drain and rinse the beans before proceeding with the recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Beans (1.5 – 2 hours)

1. Drain and Rinse Soaked Beans: After soaking, drain the beans in a colander and rinse them again with cold water.
2. Cook Beans: Return the drained beans to the large pot. Add fresh cold water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Simmer Beans: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Check for tenderness after 1.5 hours. They should be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Cooking time will vary depending on the freshness and type of beans.
4. Drain Cooked Beans: Once the beans are tender, drain them in a colander and set aside. Reserve about 1 cup of the bean cooking liquid. This starchy liquid can be added back to the beans later if needed to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 3: Prepare Bacon and Vegetables (15 minutes)

1. Cook Bacon: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity), cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Remove Bacon and Reserve Drippings: Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
3. Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Beans (2 – 2.5 hours)

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Combine Ingredients: To the pot with the sautéed onions and peppers, add the cooked and drained navy beans, undrained canned pineapple chunks, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir Well: Stir all ingredients together thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined and the beans are evenly coated in the sauce.
4. Bake Covered: Cover the pot tightly with a lid or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours. Baking covered allows the beans to cook gently and the flavors to meld without drying out.
5. Bake Uncovered (Optional): After 2 hours, remove the lid or foil. If you prefer a thicker sauce and slightly caramelized top, bake uncovered for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Monitor the beans during this uncovered baking time to prevent them from drying out too much. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can stir in some of the reserved bean cooking liquid or a little water to thin it out.
6. Stir in Crispy Bacon: In the last 15-20 minutes of baking, stir in about ¾ of the crispy cooked bacon, reserving some for garnish. Stirring in the bacon towards the end prevents it from becoming soggy and keeps it crispy-ish.
7. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the pot from the oven and let the beans rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the beans to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish (Enjoy!)

1. Serve Hot: Serve the Hawaiian Baked Beans hot, directly from the pot or transferred to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with Bacon: Garnish with the remaining crispy bacon crumbles.
3. Optional Garnishes: You can also garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness, or a few pineapple wedges for extra visual appeal.

Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Baked Beans:

• Don’t Skip Soaking: Soaking the beans is crucial for tender beans and reduced cooking time. It also aids in digestion.
• Simmer Beans Gently: Simmer the beans gently after soaking, avoiding a rapid boil, which can cause the skins to split and the beans to become mushy.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the beans before baking and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more brown sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the flavors will intensify during baking.
• Bake Low and Slow: Baking at a low temperature for a longer period allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in richer and more flavorful baked beans.
• Control Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, bake uncovered for longer and/or simmer the beans on the stovetop after baking to reduce the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with reserved bean cooking liquid or water.
• Use Oven-Safe Pot: Ensure you are using a heavy oven-safe pot or Dutch oven that can withstand the baking temperature and distribute heat evenly.

Hawaiian Baked Beans Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a hearty and flavorful side dish that offers a good source of fiber and protein, but it’s also important to be mindful of the sugar and sodium content due to the ingredients used in the sauce. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings and using approximately 1 cup serving size):

Servings: 8 (Approximately 1 cup serving size)

Calories Per Serving (estimated): Approximately 350-450 calories (This can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used).

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Protein: 15-20 grams (From navy beans and bacon)
• Fat: 15-20 grams (Primarily from bacon)
  • Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams (Primarily from bacon)
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 6-8 grams (Primarily from bacon and olive oil, if used for sautéing)
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2-4 grams (From bacon and beans)
• Cholesterol: 30-40 mg (From bacon)
• Sodium: 600-800 mg (Varies depending on bacon, soy sauce, ketchup, and salt added. Can be reduced by using low-sodium options)
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams (Primarily from navy beans, brown sugar, pineapple, and molasses)
  • Fiber: 10-15 grams (Excellent source of fiber from navy beans and vegetables)
  • Sugar: 25-35 grams (From brown sugar, pineapple, molasses, and ketchup. Naturally occurring and added sugars)
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Iron: Good source (Navy beans and molasses are good sources of iron, important for red blood cell production)
  • Potassium: Good source (Navy beans and pineapple contain potassium, important for blood pressure regulation)
  • Folate: Good source (Navy beans are a good source of folate, essential for cell growth and development)
  • Manganese: Good source (Navy beans are a good source of manganese, an antioxidant and important for bone health)
  • Vitamin C: Moderate source (Pineapple and bell pepper provide Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function)

Health Considerations:

• Fiber-Rich: Excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports heart health.
• Good Source of Protein: Provides a significant amount of plant-based protein from navy beans and some animal protein from bacon, contributing to muscle building and satiety.
• Moderate in Fat and Saturated Fat: Contains a moderate amount of fat, particularly saturated fat from bacon. Choose leaner bacon options and consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• High in Sugar: Contains a significant amount of sugar from brown sugar, molasses, pineapple, and ketchup. Be mindful of sugar intake, especially if you are watching your blood sugar levels or calorie intake. Consider reducing the amount of added sugar if desired.
• Moderate to High in Sodium: Can be moderate to high in sodium, depending on ingredients used. Use low-sodium bacon, soy sauce, and ketchup options, and adjust salt to taste to reduce sodium content.
• Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Provides several important vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, folate, manganese, and Vitamin C.

Note: These nutritional values are estimates and can vary. For precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider reducing sugar and sodium content to make a healthier version.

Hawaiian Baked Beans Preparation Time

While Hawaiian Baked Beans require a significant amount of overall time due to soaking and baking, the active hands-on preparation time is relatively short. This recipe is largely hands-off once the beans are in the oven, making it a great option for meal prepping or when you need a side dish that cooks itself. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time (Active): 30-40 minutes (This includes: rinsing and soaking beans, chopping vegetables, cooking bacon, sautéing vegetables, and combining ingredients)
• Soak Time (Inactive): 8 hours or Overnight (For soaking navy beans)
• Cook Time (Simmer Beans): 1.5 – 2 hours (Simmering navy beans until tender)
• Bake Time (Oven): 2 – 2.5 hours (Baking the beans in the oven)
• Rest Time: 10-15 minutes (Resting beans after baking)
• Total Time (Overall): Approximately 12-15 hours (Including soak time, cooking, and baking)
• Total Active Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (Combining active prep time and cooking/baking time, excluding soak time)

Time-Saving Tips:

• Quick Soak Method: Use the quick soak method for beans to reduce soaking time to just over an hour instead of overnight.
• Pre-chopped Vegetables: Purchase pre-chopped onions and bell peppers to save a few minutes of prep time.
• One-Pot Cooking: Cooking the bacon and sautéing the vegetables in the same pot you will bake the beans in minimizes dishes and streamlines the process.
• Hands-Off Baking: Once the beans are in the oven, they require minimal attention, freeing you up to do other tasks.
• Make Ahead: Hawaiian Baked Beans are a great make-ahead dish. They can be made a day or two in advance and reheated before serving, which can save time on the day of serving. In fact, the flavor often improves after a day or two in the refrigerator as the flavors meld further.

How to Serve Hawaiian Baked Beans: Perfect Pairings and Occasions

Hawaiian Baked Beans are a versatile and crowd-pleasing side dish that complements a wide range of main courses and is perfect for various occasions. Their sweet and savory flavor profile makes them a fantastic addition to barbecues, potlucks, and casual family meals. Here are some delicious serving suggestions and pairing ideas:

Main Course Pairings (BBQ & Grilled Favorites):

• BBQ Ribs: A classic pairing! The sweetness of the beans cuts through the richness of BBQ ribs, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
• Pulled Pork or Chicken: Hawaiian Baked Beans are a natural complement to pulled pork or chicken sandwiches or platters. The flavors harmonize beautifully.
• Grilled Chicken or Steak: Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts, thighs, or steak for a hearty and flavorful BBQ feast.
• Hamburgers and Hot Dogs: Elevate your classic burgers and hot dogs with a generous serving of Hawaiian Baked Beans. They add a gourmet touch to casual fare.
• Smoked Brisket: The smoky depth of brisket pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory beans, creating a truly decadent BBQ experience.
• Kalua Pig (Hawaiian Pulled Pork): For a truly Hawaiian-themed meal, serve these beans alongside Kalua Pig. The flavors complement each other perfectly.

Side Dish Accompaniments (Completing the BBQ Spread):

• Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm and hearty beans.
• Cornbread or Biscuits: Serve with warm cornbread or biscuits for soaking up the delicious bean sauce.
• Macaroni Salad: Another classic BBQ side dish that pairs well with baked beans.
• Potato Salad: Creamy or mustard-based potato salad is a great addition to a BBQ spread alongside Hawaiian Baked Beans.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Fresh grilled corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness and summery flavor.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the baked beans.

Occasions to Serve Hawaiian Baked Beans:

• Summer Barbecues and Cookouts: A must-have for any summer BBQ gathering.
• Potlucks and Picnics: Easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and picnics.
• Family Gatherings and Holidays: A comforting and satisfying side dish for family dinners and holiday meals.
• Casual Weeknight Dinners: Elevate a simple weeknight dinner by adding these flavorful baked beans as a side.
• Tailgating and Sporting Events: Perfect for tailgating parties and sporting events, served warm in slow cookers or chafing dishes.
• Hawaiian-Themed Parties: Ideal for Hawaiian luau parties or any event with a tropical theme.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Hot: Hawaiian Baked Beans are best served hot and freshly baked.
• Garnish: Garnish with crispy bacon crumbles, chopped fresh parsley or green onions, or pineapple wedges for visual appeal and added flavor.
• Spoon Generously: Serve generous portions of beans as they are a hearty and satisfying side dish.
• Keep Warm: If serving at a party or gathering, keep the beans warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish to maintain temperature and prevent drying out.
• Offer Toppings (Optional): For a fun topping bar, offer options like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or hot sauce for guests to customize their beans.

No matter the occasion, Hawaiian Baked Beans are sure to be a hit, bringing a taste of Aloha and a whole lot of flavor to your table.

Additional Tips for Exceptional Hawaiian Baked Beans

To take your Hawaiian Baked Beans from good to absolutely unforgettable, here are five additional tips to elevate your recipe and impress your guests:

1. Enhance the Smoky Flavor: For an even deeper smoky flavor, consider adding a smoked ham hock or a few ounces of smoked sausage to the beans while they are baking. Remove the ham hock before serving. You can also use smoked bacon instead of regular bacon for an extra layer of smokiness. A dash of liquid smoke (use sparingly, it’s potent!) can also add a subtle smoky note if desired.
2. Caramelize Onions for Depth: Take the time to properly caramelize the onions before adding them to the beans. Sautéing them until softened is good, but caramelizing them until deeply golden brown and sweet will unlock even more flavor and depth. This extra step requires a little more time and patience, but it’s worth the effort for a richer, more complex flavor base.
3. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess to Your Preference: Taste the bean mixture before baking and adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking. If you prefer sweeter beans, add a bit more brown sugar or pineapple juice. For a tangier flavor, add a splash more apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice. Remember that the flavors will meld and intensify during baking, so adjust accordingly.
4. Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven: Baking beans low and slow benefits from even heat distribution. Using a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven helps to prevent hot spots and ensures the beans cook evenly and don’t scorch on the bottom. Cast iron Dutch ovens are particularly excellent for baked beans due to their heat retention and even cooking.
5. Make it a Day Ahead (Flavor Improvement): Hawaiian Baked Beans are one of those dishes that actually taste even better the next day. Making them a day ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and deepen in the refrigerator, resulting in an even richer and more complex flavor profile. Reheat gently before serving. This also makes them a perfect dish for potlucks or make-ahead meal planning.

FAQ: Your Hawaiian Baked Beans Questions Answered

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making Hawaiian Baked Beans:

Q1: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans to save time?

A: While using dried beans is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture in baked beans, you can use canned beans in a pinch to save time. If using canned beans, you will skip the soaking and simmering steps. Use about 6-7 (15-ounce) cans of navy beans, rinsed and drained. Reduce the baking time to about 1-1.5 hours, or until heated through and the sauce has thickened. Keep in mind that canned beans may be softer and the flavor may not be as deep as with dried beans.

Q2: Can I make Hawaiian Baked Beans in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After sautéing the bacon, onions, and peppers, combine all ingredients (including soaked and simmered beans, or rinsed and drained canned beans) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beans are heated through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.

Q3: Can I freeze Hawaiian Baked Beans?

A: Yes, Hawaiian Baked Beans freeze well. Allow the beans to cool completely after baking. Transfer them to freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through.

Q4: Can I make these beans vegetarian or vegan?

A: To make vegetarian Hawaiian Baked Beans, omit the bacon. To make them vegan, omit the bacon and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegan (some brands contain anchovies). You can add a tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil to sauté the onions and peppers in place of bacon drippings. You can also add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor in the absence of bacon.

Q5: My beans are too watery after baking. How do I thicken the sauce?

A: If your beans are too watery after baking, you can thicken the sauce by simmering them on the stovetop uncovered after baking. Transfer the beans to a stovetop-safe pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has reduced and thickened to your desired consistency. This may take 15-30 minutes. You can also mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the pot to release starch and help thicken the sauce.

Hawaiian Baked Beans are more than just a side dish; they are a taste of sunshine and island hospitality, perfect for bringing people together and adding a touch of tropical flair to any meal. Enjoy the process of making them, savor the delightful aroma, and relish every sweet, savory, and smoky spoonful! Aloha and happy cooking!

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