Why did i do that?

Lemon juice enhances the flavor of tomato sauce by adding acidity.  I first noticed it with home canned tomatoes.  In my opinion, it makes it taste home grown and more tomato-y-er!

I don't either!  One gulp and it turns my stomach, but I don't have a problem with the beer in these recipes.  It doesn't change the taste and the alcohol cooks out.  Adding the beer keeps the meat tender for longer cook times.  

If you don't want to use it, just add a cup of broth.

You don't have to, you can replace with canned.  2 cups dried beans when cooked equals about 2 average sized canned beans.