Bean Hole Beans

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. navy beans
• 1 lb. salt pork, cubed
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp. dry mustard
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Directions

1. Soak the navy beans in water overnight.
2. Drain the beans and rinse, then place them in a large pot.
3. Add the salt pork, water, molasses, maple syrup, dry mustard and black pepper to the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the beans are soft.
5. Transfer the beans to an oven-safe pot.
6. Dig a hole in the ground, line it with rocks and heat the rocks with a fire for 1-2 hours.
7. Place the pot in the hole and cover with dirt.
8. Bake the beans for 4-6 hours.
9. Uncover the pot and serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Bean hole beans were traditionally made in New England in the 1800s.
• The slow-cooking process gives the beans a smoky flavor.
• Bean hole beans are also known as “Boston baked beans”.