Boston Beans And Pork

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Soak beans in water to cover for several hours, or combine them in a saucepan with cold water to cover and simmer for about 10 minutes.

2. Step 2

   Heat oven to 350 degrees. Put oil in a large casserole or Dutch oven, and turn heat to medium-high. Add bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, while you trim pork of excess fat and cut it into 2-inch cubes. When bacon is nicely browned, add pork, a bit at a time, and cook until nicely browned, sprinkling with salt and pepper as it cooks.

3. Step 3

   Add onions and garlic and cook until they soften a bit, then add remaining ingredients, including 2 teaspoons ground black pepper and drained beans. Stir and barely cover with water.

4. Step 4

   Bring to a bare simmer on stove top, then cover and put in oven. Cook for 2 hours, one with lid on, one with lid off. Check occasionally, adding a splash of water if necessary.

5. Step 5

   When beans are done, check for seasoning, adding salt if necessary. Serve immediately, or keep warm in a low oven or over a low flame, or refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve.