Three Unique Takes on Classic Boston Baked Beans

Classic Boston Baked Beans

The hallmark of Boston baked beans lies in their slow-cooked, molasses-infused flavor, often enhanced with bacon or salt pork. This traditional recipe requires some planning but delivers an authentic taste that’s worth the wait.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried Navy or Great Northern beans
• 1/2 pound bacon, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Soak the Beans: Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak overnight.
2. Pre-cook the Beans: Drain the soaking water and cover beans with fresh water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Drain and reserve the liquid.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large oven-safe pot, mix beans with bacon and onion. In a separate bowl, combine molasses, salt, pepper, mustard, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and one cup of the reserved liquid. Stir well and add to the beans.
4. Bake: Cover the pot and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3 hours, checking occasionally and adding more reserved liquid as needed. After 3 hours, stir the mixture, re-cover, and bake for another hour. Finally, remove the lid and bake uncovered for 30 minutes.

Boston Baked Beans, Crockpot Version

For those who prefer a hands-off approach, the crockpot version of Boston baked beans is a perfect solution. Simply soak the beans overnight, set up your crockpot in the morning, and come home to a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Navy or Great Northern beans
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Soak the Beans: Soak beans overnight in cold water. Drain in the morning.
2. Combine Ingredients: Mix all remaining ingredients together in the slow cooker. Add beans and enough water to cover. Stir well.
3. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 10-12 hours.

Super Short Cut Boston Baked Beans

If you're short on time but still crave that classic baked bean flavor, this shortcut version is your go-to. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, sliced thin
• 3 slices bacon, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large (28 oz) cans of Pork and Beans
• 1 tablespoon molasses or maple syrup
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1/3 cup prepared BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Sauté: In a frying pan, sauté the bacon and onion until the bacon is crispy and the onion is softened.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large Dutch oven or baking dish, mix molasses, ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, and onion powder. Add the bacon, onions, and beans. Stir well.
3. Bake: Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Historical Roots: Boston baked beans date back to the Native American dish "succotash," which combined beans, corn, and meat. The Pilgrims adapted this into what we now know as Boston baked beans.
• Molasses Trade: In the 18th century, Boston was a major port for molasses, a key ingredient in baked beans. This trade was part of the infamous "Triangular Trade" involving rum, slaves, and molasses.
• Consumption: According to the USDA, Americans consume over 50 million pounds of baked beans annually. USDA

Conclusion

Boston baked beans are a versatile and beloved dish that can be adapted to suit various cooking methods and time constraints. Whether you opt for the traditional oven-baked version, the convenient crockpot method, or a quick shortcut, you're sure to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic dish.

For more on the history and variations of baked beans, check out Smithsonian Magazine and Serious Eats.