Boston Brown Bread Recipe

Boston Brown Bread is a traditional New England dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a rich, dark bread that is typically served with baked beans or as part of a New England-style brunch. This recipe has been passed down through generations in many families and is beloved for its delicious flavor and hearty texture.

To make Boston Brown Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 7 teaspoons Dr. Price's Baking Powder
- 1 medium-sized, cold, boiled potato
- Milk (water may be used)

Begin by sifting together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are well combined and free of any lumps.

Next, take the cold, boiled potato and rub it into the dry mixture. This step may seem unusual, but the potato helps to add moisture and richness to the bread. Make sure to break up the potato into small pieces as you rub it into the mixture.

Once the potato is well incorporated, begin adding liquid to the mixture. You will need about one pint of liquid, which can be either milk or water. Gradually pour the liquid into the bowl, mixing it in as you go. The goal is to create a soft dough that mixes rapidly and smoothly.

Once the dough has reached the desired consistency, turn it out into a greased loaf pan. Use a knife dipped in melted butter to smooth the top of the dough. This will add a touch of richness to the finished bread.

Allow the dough to stand in a warm place for approximately 30 minutes. This resting period will give the dough a chance to rise slightly before baking.

Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature and then place the loaf pan in the oven. Bake the bread for about one hour, or until it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

When the bread is done baking, remove it from the pan and moisten the top slightly with cold water. This will add a bit of moisture to the finished bread and help to prevent it from drying out. Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it away.

Now that you have a delicious loaf of Boston Brown Bread, you can enjoy it in a variety of ways. One of the most classic ways to serve this bread is alongside a steaming pot of baked beans. The rich, slightly sweet flavor of the bread pairs perfectly with the savory beans.

Boston Brown Bread can also be enjoyed as part of a New England-style brunch. Slice the bread thickly and toast it, then serve it with butter or cream cheese. You can also experiment with different toppings, such as smoked salmon or avocado.

Another fun way to enjoy Boston Brown Bread is to use it as the base for a sandwich. Layer on your favorite deli meats and cheeses, along with some fresh lettuce and tomato, for a delicious and hearty sandwich.

Similar recipes to Boston Brown Bread include other traditional New England breads, such as Anadama Bread and Parker House Rolls. These breads share a similar history and are often served alongside the same dishes. In fact, a traditional New England dinner might consist of Boston Brown Bread, Anadama Bread, and Parker House Rolls, all served with baked beans and other regional specialties.

So, the next time you're looking to try a classic New England dish, give Boston Brown Bread a try. Its rich flavor, hearty texture, and fascinating history make it a truly unique and delicious option.