Using lentils makes this version of baked beans a snap. No soaking required! These are smoky and sweet, and go perfect with your summer BBQ, without undoing all your healthy goals!
In a Dutch oven, or other large, ovenproof pot, combine lentils, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes, until liquid is completely absorbed. Discard bay leaf.
In the meantime, in a small pot, bring water to a boil. Remove from heat and add dates.
When lentils are done, add the date/water mixture to a high-speed blender, and add soy sauce, dry mustard, liquid smoke, and ginger. Process on high speed until smooth.
Add date mixture, chopped onion, and ketchup or BBQ sauce to lentils, and stir. Bake, covered, for 45-60 minutes. Uncover the last 15 minutes.Note that the lentils will absorb liquid as they sit. If you like your baked beans saucier, add 1-2 cups of vegetable broth or water, stirring to combine.