My Grandpa George made these back when I'm sure I never tried them. With thanks to Uncle John for writing it...
Serves 6
INGREDIENTS
1 pound navy beans
1 large onion, chopped
2 tablespoons mustard
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons molasses
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon vinegar
METHOD
1. In a large bowl, combine the beans with plenty of cold water and soak overnight for 6 to 8 hours.
2. Drain the beans. In a large pot, combine the beans and enough water to cover them by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to simmer, and cook for 45 minutes or until they are just tender (it may take longer if the beans are old or the soaking time was short). Drain the beans and set aside the cooking liquid.
3. Set the oven at 325 degrees. In a bean pot or deep casserole with a lid, combine the beans, onion, mustard, black pepper, brown sugar, vinegar, and molasses. Add enough of the cooking liquid to almost cover the beans. Stir to blend.
4. Cover the beans with 4 to 6 strips of raw smoked bacon. Place the lid on and transfer to the oven. Bake for 2 hours, checking every 30 minutes to make sure the beans aren't dry. Add more cooking liquid if necessary.
5. When the beans are tender, uncover the pot and cook for 20 to 30 minutes more to make a slightly crusty top.