Looking for a dish that embodies the spirit of New England? Look no further than Boston Baked Beans! This classic recipe combines sweet and savory flavors that will transport you straight to a cozy family gathering. It’s a dish that’s been cherished for generations, perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just a comforting meal at home.
Imagine sinking your spoon into a rich, hearty bowl of beans stewed to perfection, with a hint of smoky bacon and a touch of molasses. The balance of sweetness and savory depth makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving them as a side or a main dish, these baked beans are sure to impress.
The Traditional Boston Baked Beans Recipe
These Boston Baked Beans are slow-cooked to create a rich, thick sauce that clings to the beans, offering a combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. They’re perfect for any occasion and can easily become a family favorite.
The taste is a delightful mix of sweetness from the molasses and brown sugar, combined with the savory, smoky notes from the bacon or salt pork. Each bite is satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 1/2 pound bacon or salt pork, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
- Soak the Beans: Rinse the beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a Dutch oven or a bean pot, add water, and bring to a simmer. Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally, adding more water if necessary.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the beans sit for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
