"bucks County" Baked Beans Recipe

The history of "Bucks County" Baked Beans:
Baked beans have been a staple in American cuisine for centuries, and various regions have their own unique takes on the dish. One such variation is the "Bucks County" Baked Beans. Bucks County, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, is known for its rural landscapes and rich culinary traditions. The recipe for "Bucks County" Baked Beans represents the simple yet delicious country-style cooking that has been passed down through generations in this area.

Fun facts about the recipe:
- The use of small soup beans in this recipe adds a hearty and rich texture to the dish. These beans are small in size but pack a punch in terms of flavor.
- The addition of molasses lends a slightly sweet and caramelized taste to the baked beans, enhancing their overall depth of flavor.
- Instead of using plain water, the recipe calls for the water in which smoked bacon has been simmering. This adds a smoky and savory element to the beans, elevating the taste to a whole new level.
- Baking the beans for several hours allows the flavors to meld together and develops a beautiful rich brown crust on top, adding to the visual appeal.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for "Bucks County" Baked Beans:

Ingredients:
- 1 quart of small soup beans
- Water, for soaking and boiling
- 1 tablespoon of molasses
- 1 pound of clean, scored smoked bacon
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Start by soaking the small soup beans overnight in cold water. Make sure the beans are completely submerged.
2. The following morning, drain the beans and transfer them to a large pot. Cover the beans with boiling water, add the tablespoon of molasses, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the beans are tender but still hold their shape. Avoid overcooking them to the point of being too soft.
3. Once the beans are cooked, drain them. Discard the cooking water, as we won't be using it in this recipe.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Place the cooked beans in an earthen bake dish, spreading them out evenly.
6. In the center of the bake dish, lay the clean and scored smoked bacon.
7. Pour the water in which the bacon has been simmering for an hour over the beans. The water should come to almost cover the beans. If needed, add a little more water.
8. Season the beans with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
9. Cover the bake dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
10. Bake the beans for approximately three hours, or until they are tender and have developed a rich brown crust on top. Check occasionally and add more hot water if the beans start to dry out. However, in the last half hour of baking, allow the water to cook away, creating a thicker and richer sauce.
11. Once the "Bucks County" Baked Beans are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
12. Serve the baked beans hot, accompanied by stewed tomatoes, baked apples, or apple sauce. The acidity and freshness of these side dishes complement the rich flavors of the beans.

Note: If you happen to have any leftover "Bucks County" Baked Beans, they can be reheated the following day in a flavorful "tomato sauce." Simply combine the leftover tomatoes with a well-cooked carrot and an onion. Press the mixture through a coarse sieve and reheat the beans in this sauce. It will add a delicious twist to the leftovers and create a whole new dish.

Similar recipe dishes:
- Boston Baked Beans: These beans are closer to what most people think of when it comes to baked beans. They are typically sweetened with molasses or brown sugar and often include ingredients like mustard and salt pork.
- Southern Baked Beans: The Southern variation of baked beans often incorporates ingredients like barbecue sauce, bacon, and sometimes even bourbon for a unique twist on the classic dish.
- Cowboy Beans: Also known as chuckwagon beans, this recipe is favored in Western American cuisine. It typically combines beans with ground beef, onions, and various seasonings for a hearty and flavorful dish.

" Bucks County" Baked Beans stand out for their simplicity, showcasing the quality of the ingredients and the traditional cooking techniques of the region. Enjoy these flavorful beans as a side dish, at your next BBQ, or as a comforting meal on their own.