Boston Baked Beans Recipe
This traditional New England dish has long been a staple in the city, offering a hearty and flavorful experience that reflects the region’s history and love for beans. Slow-cooked to perfection, Boston Baked Beans boast a savory blend of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring tender beans, smoky bacon, and a delectable molasses glaze. Join us as we take you through the steps to recreate this iconic dish, allowing you to savor the taste of Boston’s culinary legacy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 1/2 pound salt pork or bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 cups water
Instructions:
- Rinse the navy beans under cold water and remove any debris or impurities. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and let the beans simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and drain.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, place the salt pork or bacon pieces in the bottom. Add the chopped onion on top.
- In a separate bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and ground cloves. Mix well to create the glaze.
- Layer the partially cooked beans over the salt pork or bacon and onion mixture in the pot.
- Pour the molasses glaze over the beans, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Add enough water to the pot to just cover the beans.
- Cover the pot and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 4 to 5 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together, checking occasionally to ensure they don’t dry out. Add more water if needed.
- Once the beans are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the savory Boston Baked Beans as a delightful taste of Beantown’s culinary legacy, paired with crusty bread or as a side dish to complement your favorite New England-inspired meals.