Friday 24 October 2008

Boston Baked Beans

Although not a British invention, baked beans are perhaps more popular here than anywhere else in the world. Invented in America, the upmarket grocer Fortnum and Mason was first to introduce them as a luxury item back in 1901. Baked beans have since become a British institution and are universally popular. It's hard to believe baked beans were ever considered a luxury, they are now one of the cheapest foods around.

I find canned beans an unexciting food, these Boston baked beans on the other hand were in a different league altogether. Far better than the bland cans of beans that line the supermarket shelves.
Big chunks of bacon and generous spoonfuls of molasses and brown sugar gave these beans an amazing richness and depth of flavour. I served my beans in the traditional British way, on toast, they would also make a delicious filling for a baked potato.

Not only are they cheap but apparently eating beans can help you to live longer, what more reason do you need to get cooking!

I used this recipe taken from the River Cottage meat book, I highly recommend this book, it can everything you could ever want to know about meat, and has great recipes too.

10 comments:

Karen said...

I grew up on Boston Baked Beans... mmmm, you're making me hungry!

Joie de vivre said...

I had never heard of the River Cottage Meat book before. So many lovely cookbooks yet to discover, so little time...

Pam said...

I love baked beans and this recipe sounds great. I've never had it on toast before - sounds great.

Abitofafoodie said...

I have to admit that I have a serious weakness for Heinz baked beans. But I'm working through it so should really try my hand at this recipe to aid along my conversion! They look terrific.

Beth (jamandcream) said...

I need toget some of hughs books - liking his tv show on c4 at the mo

Alicia Foodycat said...

Wonderful! HFW is my god - I must have a look at this recipe. While I am a huge fan of the Heinz bean, a good Boston Baked Bean is in a totally different class.

Hopie said...

I feel ashamed to admit that I'm not a big fan of Boston baked beans, considering I grew up in Boston, but, then again, if they make you live longer, I should probably give them a second chance!

Unknown said...

what a great side dish... perfect for my ribs... thanks for sharing... :)

Anonymous said...

baked beans used to be posh... and they're american ?!!

I learn something new everyday :P

hampers said...

Oh, this looks amazing. Feel good food. And all the extra goodies thrown in just perfects this simple dish. I could just eat some now.