Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through time with the most authentic and soul-warming Boston Baked Beans recipe that will make your taste buds dance with delight! This classic American dish is more than just a side – it's a nostalgic experience that brings together rich, deep flavors and a slow-cooked perfection that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender navy beans swimming in a luscious, molasses-infused sauce that tells a story of traditional New England cooking – this recipe is about to become your new comfort food obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dried navy beans, removing any stones or damaged beans. Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water, allowing them to soak overnight for 8-10 hours.
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans thoroughly. Transfer beans to a slow cooker.
- In a separate skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until it begins to crisp. Add diced onions and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the bacon and onion mixture to the beans in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the molasses mixture over the beans and bacon, stirring gently to ensure even distribution.
- Add enough hot water to cover the beans by about 1 inch.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 7-8 hours, checking occasionally and adding more hot water if the beans appear dry.
- In the final hour of cooking, remove the lid to allow the sauce to thicken and concentrate its flavors.
- The beans are done when they are tender and the sauce has reached a thick, rich consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the beans rest for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to further set and flavors to meld.
Tips
- Soaking is Crucial: Always soak your dried navy beans overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps eliminate potential digestive discomfort.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Patience is key with this recipe. The slow cooker allows flavors to develop and beans to become incredibly tender.
- Water Management: Check your beans periodically and add hot water if they look dry. The goal is to keep them just covered but not swimming.
- Bacon Matters: Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor. The rendered fat adds incredible depth to the dish.
- Molasses Magic: Use unsulfured molasses for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking. The flavors concentrate during slow cooking, so be cautious with salt.
- Resting Period: Allow the beans to rest after cooking. This helps the sauce thicken and flavors to fully integrate.Pro tip: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance for a truly spectacular meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 185kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
