Ingredients

  • 1 lb. dried navy or pea beans, picked over, rinsed and drained
  • water
  • 1 1/2 c. beef broth
  • 1/2 c. canned tomato sauce or puree
  • 1/2 c. dark molasses
  • 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp. dried mustard
  • 1/2 tsp. each: salt and pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. celery salt
  • 1 medium-size onion, sliced thin
  • 4 oz. sliced bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium-size Granny Smith or other tart apple, peeled and chopped coarse

Method

  • Bring beans and 6 cups water to boil in a heavy 3 to 4-quart pot over high heat.
  • Boil 2 minutes; remove from heat.
  • Cover and let stand for 1 hour.
  • Drain.
  • Add 6 cups fresh water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  • Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 1 hour or until beans are almost tender.
  • Drain.
  • Heat oven to 350°. Mix broth, tomato sauce, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper and celery salt in a deep 3-quart casserole.
  • Gently stir in beans, onion, bacon and apple.
  • Cover and bake 2 hours or until beans are tender.
  • Uncover and bake 1 hour longer until sauce has thickened and top is browned.
  • Makes 7 cups.