Baked Beans New England Style

A recipe for New England-style baked beans that serves two people:

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried navy beans or great northern beans (or one 15 oz can of navy or great northern beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 cup water (or enough to cover beans)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Preparation

If Using Dried Beans

1. Soak the Beans:
   • Rinse the dried beans thoroughly. Place them in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
2. Cook the Beans:
   • Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Place them in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

If Using Canned Beans

• Skip the soaking and cooking steps. Drain and rinse the canned beans thoroughly.

Prepare the Baked Beans:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a small ovenproof pot or baking dish with a lid, combine the cooked or canned beans, finely chopped onion, molasses, brown sugar, maple syrup, dry mustard, salt, black pepper, and ground ginger. Mix well to ensure all the beans are coated with the sauce.
3. Add Water:
   • Pour in enough water to just cover the beans. Add the bay leaf if using. Stir to combine.
4. Bake the Beans:
   • Cover the pot or baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours.
   • Check the beans occasionally to ensure they remain covered with liquid. Add a bit more water if necessary.
   • After 2 hours, remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
5. Serve
   • Remove the beans from the oven and discard the bay leaf. Stir the beans and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Serve the baked beans hot, garnished with a bit of extra molasses or maple syrup if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or as a side dish to a main course like roasted vegetables or grilled tofu.