Cook's Country Boston Baked Beans

Cook's Country Boston Baked Beans - Instructions

Notes: Don't use dark or blackstrap molasses. The beans will become bitter
tasting in the slow cooker. Also, slow cookers are notorious for failing to soften
baked beans. Placing a layer of foil directly on the beans helps to keep the heat at
the bottom of the pot -- and in the beans -- rather than letting it rise to the lid.
This step shaves hours off the cooking time. Serves 4 to 6

1. Set slow cooker to high to preheat. Drain beans and transfer to large Dutch oven.
Add 8 cups water, baking soda and bay leaves. Bring to boil over medium-high heat,
then use wide spoon to skim off any foam that rises to top. Boil 15 minutes. Drain
beans and transfer to slow cooker insert, discarding bay leaves.

2. While beans are cooking in Dutch oven, score fatty side of salt pork and cut into 2

Cook's Country Boston Baked Beans - Instructions Continued

pieces. Place scored side down in medium nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook
until fat is rendered, 8 to 10 minutes. Turn salt pork over, add onion, and cook until
lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker insert. Stir 1/4 cup
molasses, brown sugar, and boiling water into slow cooker insert.

3. Cover beans with piece of aluminum foil, then cover slow cooker with lid. Set slow
cooker to low and cook until beans are tender and creamy, 10 to 12 hours.
(Alternatively, cook on high for 5 to 6 hours.)

4. Turn off slow cooker and remove lid and aluminum foil. Stir in remaining 2
tablespoons molasses, mustard and vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover slow cooker with lid and let beans sit until sauce has slightly thickened, 15 to
20 minutes. Serve.