Boston Baked Beans – Yum!

Boston Baked Beans is a traditional American dish with a rich history dating back to colonial times. It’s a sweet and savory dish made from navy beans, molasses, and salt pork. The beans are slow-baked until tender, absorbing the flavors of the molasses and salt pork.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) dry navy beans
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 pound (115g) salt pork or thick-cut bacon
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:
   • Rinse the dry navy beans and soak them overnight in enough water to cover. Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
3. Mix the Sauce:
   • In a bowl, mix together molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ketchup, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and ground cloves (if using).
4. Parboil the Beans:
   • Place the soaked and rinsed beans in a large pot with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Drain the beans.
5. Layer the Beans:
   • Place a portion of the beans in a bean pot or an ovenproof casserole dish. Add a layer of the chopped onion and a few pieces of salt pork or bacon. Pour some of the sauce over this layer.
   • Repeat layering until all the beans, onions, salt pork or bacon, and sauce are used.
6. Bake the Beans:
   • Cover the pot or casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 6-7 hours, or until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened. Check periodically and add water if needed to keep the beans moist.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Remove the salt pork or bacon pieces before serving if desired.
8. Enjoy:
   • Serve Boston Baked Beans as a side dish to complement your meal.