Classic Boston Baked Beans: from New England

Rinse and soak 1 pound of dried navy beans overnight in water.

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and drain the soaked beans.

 In a Dutch oven, combine beans with 1/2 cup of molasses, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Add enough water to cover the beans by about an inch.

Stir in 1 medium chopped onion and 1/4 pound of diced salt pork or bacon.

Cover the Dutch oven and bake for about 6 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.

If the beans become too dry during baking, add more water as needed.

 Serve hot as a main dish or side, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional New England favorite!