All American Molasses Baked Beans

1. 1

   Place beans in a large bowl and cover with water by at least 3 inches.

2. 2

   Soak overnight.

3. 3

   Drain.

4. 4

   In a large heavy saucepan, combine beans and bay leaves.

5. 5

   Add enough water to cover by 3 inches.

6. 6

   Bring to a boil and continue boiling gently for about 45 minutes or until beans are tender.

7. 7

   Drain beans reserving 4 cups of the cooking liquid.

8. 8

   Preheat oven to 350^F.

9. 9

   In a large oven proof pot with a lid, combine the onion, salt pork, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, dry mustard and pepper.

10. 10

    Stir in the beans and 3 cups of the cooking liquid.

11. 11

    Cover the pot tightly with foil and then the lid.

12. 12

    Bake until the beans are very tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 2+1/2 hours.

13. 13

    Add more liquid as necessary.

14. 14

    Season with salt and pepper.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.