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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
4. In a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, place the salt pork or bacon pieces in the bottom. Add the chopped onion on top.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and ground cloves. Mix well to create the glaze.
6. Layer the partially cooked beans over the salt pork or bacon and onion mixture in the pot.
7. Pour the molasses glaze over the beans, making sure to coat them evenly.
8. Add enough water to the pot to just cover the beans.
9. 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.
10. Once the beans are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. 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.