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Baked Beans

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Boston Baked Beans—a classic New England dish boasting tender navy beans layered with savory salt pork, sweet molasses, and a harmonious blend of spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, whether in the oven, Crock-Pot, or Instant Pot, this timeless recipe yields a hearty, aromatic dish that captures the essence of traditional American comfort food. Each bite is a warm embrace of sweet and savory, delivering a taste of nostalgia and homemade goodness in every spoonful.

Table of contents

Baked Beans

Boston Baked Beans Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (about 2 cups) dried navy beans
  • 1/2 pound salt pork, cut into small chunks
  • 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Beans:
    • Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and remove any debris.
    • In a large bowl, cover the beans with water and let them soak overnight. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, and then letting them soak for 1 hour.
  2. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  3. Parboil the Beans:
    • Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a large pot. Cover the beans with water and bring them to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain the beans.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
  5. Layering in the Pot:
    • In a bean pot or any oven-safe pot, layer half of the parboiled beans, followed by half of the chopped onion and salt pork chunks. Repeat the layers.
  6. Pour Sauce Over Beans:
    • Pour the molasses and spice mixture over the layered beans, onion, and salt pork. Tuck the bay leaf into the middle of the mixture.
  7. Add Water:
    • Add enough water to the pot to just cover the beans.
  8. Bake:
    • Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for about 4-6 hours or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans moist.
  9. Final Touch:
    • Remove the lid during the last hour of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
  10. Serve:
    • Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Serve the Boston Baked Beans hot as a side dish or a main course.

Instructions for the Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot)

Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot) Boston Baked Beans:

Ingredients:

  • Same as the original recipe

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Beans:
    • Soak the navy beans overnight or use the quick soak method.
  2. Parboil Beans:
    • Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Parboil the beans by simmering them in a pot of water for about 10 minutes. Drain.
  3. Prepare Sauce:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
  4. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
    • In the slow cooker, layer half of the parboiled beans, followed by half of the chopped onion and salt pork. Repeat the layers.
  5. Add Sauce and Water:
    • Pour the molasses and spice mixture over the layered beans, onion, and salt pork. Add enough water to just cover the beans.
  6. Cook:
    • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender.
  7. Final Touch:
    • Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve:
    • Serve the beans hot in the slow cooker.

Instant Pot Boston Baked Beans:

Ingredients:

  • Same as the original recipe

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Beans:
    • Soak the navy beans overnight or use the quick soak method.
  2. Parboil Beans:
    • Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Parboil the beans by simmering them in the Instant Pot on the sauté function for about 10 minutes. Drain.
  3. Prepare Sauce:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
  4. Layer Ingredients in the Instant Pot:
    • In the Instant Pot, layer half of the parboiled beans, followed by half of the chopped onion and salt pork. Repeat the layers.
  5. Add Sauce and Water:
    • Pour the molasses and spice mixture over the layered beans, onion, and salt pork. Add enough water to just cover the beans.
  6. Cook:
    • Seal the Instant Pot, set it to manual high pressure, and cook for 40-45 minutes. Allow for a natural release.
  7. Final Touch:
    • Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve:
    • Serve the beans hot from the Instant Pot.

Both the Slow Cooker and Instant Pot methods provide a convenient way to enjoy delicious Boston Baked Beans with minimal effort. Adjust the cooking times based on your specific appliance and preferences.

Recipe tips for success

  1. Choose Quality Beans:
    • Start with good-quality navy beans. Ensure they are fresh and free from debris.
  2. Proper Bean Soaking:
    • Soak the beans overnight for the best texture. If you’re short on time, use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then soaking for 1 hour.
  3. Selecting Salt Pork:
    • Choose a high-quality salt pork for authentic flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preference for saltiness.
  4. Balancing Sweetness:
    • Adjust the molasses and brown sugar to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness. Taste the molasses and adjust accordingly, as its intensity can vary.
  5. Layering Ingredients:
    • Layering the beans, onions, and salt pork ensures an even distribution of flavors. It also helps the beans cook uniformly.
  6. Don’t Forget the Spice:
    • The combination of dry mustard, black pepper, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg adds depth to the flavor profile. Adjust the spice quantities to suit your taste.
  7. Maintain Moisture:
    • Check the beans occasionally during baking and add water if needed to prevent them from drying out. The goal is moist and tender beans.
  8. Use an Oven-Safe Pot:
    • Choose a bean pot or any oven-safe pot with a lid for baking. This allows the beans to cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
  9. Experiment with Additions:
    • Feel free to add additional ingredients like a small amount of maple syrup, a dash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a personal touch.
  10. Patience is Key:
    • Baked beans benefit from slow cooking. Allow them to bake for the recommended time to develop rich flavors and tender texture.
  11. Browning for Flavor:
    • Removing the lid during the last hour of baking allows the top to brown slightly, adding depth and flavor to the dish.
  12. Serve Hot and Fresh:
    • Baked beans are best enjoyed hot. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
  13. Adjust Seasonings Before Serving:
    • Taste the beans before serving and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add a bit more salt, sugar, or spices to suit your preferences.
  14. Store and Reheat Properly:
    • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if needed.

Enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of this classic New England dish!

What diets or diet lifestyles does this recipe adhere to?

The classic Boston Baked Beans recipe typically fits within these dietary categories:

  1. Omnivorous Diet: The traditional recipe includes navy beans and salt pork, making it suitable for an omnivorous diet that includes both plant-based and animal-derived ingredients.
  2. Gluten-Free: The recipe, as provided, is naturally gluten-free. However, it’s essential to ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free, especially items like Worcestershire sauce and other condiments, as some varieties may contain gluten.
  3. Dairy-Free: The recipe doesn’t include any dairy products, so it’s suitable for a dairy-free diet.
  4. Nut-Free: It doesn’t contain nuts, making it safe for individuals with nut allergies.
  5. Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: While the classic recipe includes salt pork, it’s possible to adapt it for vegetarian or vegan diets by omitting the salt pork entirely or substituting it with plant-based alternatives like smoked paprika, tempeh, or vegan bacon.
  6. Plant-Based Diet (with Adaptation): With adjustments to exclude the salt pork, this recipe can align with a plant-based diet.
  7. Paleo/Whole30 (with Adaptation): To make it suitable for these diets, some modifications are necessary, like omitting certain ingredients such as molasses and adjusting sweeteners to comply with the dietary restrictions of these plans.

Always consider individual dietary needs and preferences, and feel free to adapt the recipe accordingly to fit specific dietary lifestyles.

Latest Posts

Baked Beans (Boston Baked Beans)

Baked Beans (Boston Baked Beans)

Yield: 6 servings

Discover the authentic taste of Boston Baked Beans with our classic New England recipe. Slow-cooked to perfection, this savory dish features tender navy beans, savory salt pork, and a blend of spices, delivering a comforting and flavorful experience. Perfect for oven, slow cooker (Crock-Pot), or Instant Pot preparation.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (about 2 cups) dried navy beans
  • 1/2 pound salt pork, cut into small chunks
  • 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

Oven Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and remove any debris. In a large bowl, cover the beans with water and let them soak overnight. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, and then letting them soak for 1 hour.
  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Parboil the Beans: Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a large pot. Cover the beans with water and bring them to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Drain the beans.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
  4. Layering in the Pot: In a bean pot or any oven-safe pot, layer half of the parboiled beans, followed by half of the chopped onion and salt pork chunks. Repeat the layers.
  5. Pour Sauce Over Beans: Pour the molasses and spice mixture over the layered beans, onion, and salt pork. Tuck the bay leaf into the middle of the mixture.
  6. Add Water: Add enough water to the pot to just cover the beans.
  7. Bake: Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for about 4-6 hours or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans moist.
  8. Final Touch: Remove the lid during the last hour of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
  9. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Serve the Boston Baked Beans hot as a side dish or a main course.

Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot) Boston Baked Beans

  1. Prepare Beans: Soak the navy beans overnight or use the quick soak method.
  2. Parboil Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Parboil the beans by simmering them in a pot of water for about 10 minutes. Drain.
  3. Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
  4. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, layer half of the parboiled beans, followed by half of the chopped onion and salt pork. Repeat the layers.
  5. Add Sauce and Water: Pour the molasses and spice mixture over the layered beans, onion, and salt pork. Add enough water to just cover the beans.
  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender.
  7. Final Touch: Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve: Serve the beans hot from the slow cooker.

Instant Pot Boston Baked Beans:

  1. Prepare Beans: Soak the navy beans overnight or use the quick soak method.
  2. Parboil Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Parboil the beans by simmering them in the Instant Pot on the sauté function for about 10 minutes. Drain.
  3. Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine molasses, brown sugar, dry mustard, black pepper, ground cloves, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
  4. Layer Ingredients in the Instant Pot: In the Instant Pot, layer half of the parboiled beans, followed by half of the chopped onion and salt pork. Repeat the layers.
  5. Add Sauce and Water: Pour the molasses and spice mixture over the layered beans, onion, and salt pork. Add enough water to just cover the beans.
  6. Cook: Seal the Instant Pot, set it to manual high pressure, and cook for 40-45 minutes. Allow for a natural release.
  7. Final Touch: Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve: Serve the beans hot from the Instant Pot.

Notes

Tips for Success

  1. Choose Quality Beans: Start with good-quality navy beans. Ensure they are fresh and free from debris.
  2. Proper Bean Soaking: Soak the beans overnight for the best texture. If you're short on time, use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then soaking for 1 hour.
  3. Selecting Salt Pork: Choose a high-quality salt pork for authentic flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preference for saltiness.
  4. Balancing Sweetness: Adjust the molasses and brown sugar to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness. Taste the molasses and adjust accordingly, as its intensity can vary.
  5. Layering Ingredients: Layering the beans, onions, and salt pork ensures an even distribution of flavors. It also helps the beans cook uniformly.
  6. Don't Forget the Spice: The combination of dry mustard, black pepper, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg adds depth to the flavor profile. Adjust the spice quantities to suit your taste.
  7. Maintain Moisture: Check the beans occasionally during baking and add water if needed to prevent them from drying out. The goal is moist and tender beans.
  8. Use an Oven-Safe Pot: Choose a bean pot or any oven-safe pot with a lid for baking. This allows the beans to cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
  9. Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add additional ingredients like a small amount of maple syrup, a dash of hot sauce, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a personal touch.
  10. Patience is Key: Baked beans benefit from slow cooking. Allow them to bake for the recommended time to develop rich flavors and tender texture.
  11. Browning for Flavor: Removing the lid during the last hour of baking allows the top to brown slightly, adding depth and flavor to the dish.
  12. Serve Hot and Fresh: Baked beans are best enjoyed hot. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
  13. Adjust Seasonings Before Serving: Taste the beans before serving and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add a bit more salt, sugar, or spices to suit your preferences.
  14. Store and Reheat Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if needed.

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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 351Total Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 1142mgCarbohydrates: 33gFiber: 3gSugar: 26gProtein: 4g

Please note that the Calculated Nutrition is an estimate at best. If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe!

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Did you make this recipe? If you share it on social media tag us @lifeslittlesweets and hashtag it #lifeslittlesweets - Thank you in advance!

© Sara Maniez
Cuisine: American / Category: Sides
  • First published: 11/15/2023

Sara Maniez
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