47 lines
2.4 KiB
Markdown
47 lines
2.4 KiB
Markdown
True brown bread is a classic New England staple that pairs excellently with Boston baked beans. It's traditionally made with a mix of rye, whole wheat flour, and cornmeal, sweetened with molasses, and steamed in a can, giving it its distinctive moist texture and slightly sweet flavor. Here's a traditional recipe for you to try:
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### Traditional New England Brown Bread Recipe
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**Ingredients:**
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- 1 cup rye flour
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- 1 cup whole wheat flour
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- 1 cup cornmeal
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- 1 teaspoon baking soda
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- 1 teaspoon salt
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- 3/4 cup molasses
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- 2 cups buttermilk
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- 1/2 cup raisins (optional, but commonly included for added sweetness and texture)
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**Equipment:**
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- Three 1-pound coffee cans, or similar cylindrical molds
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**Instructions:**
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1. **Prepare the Cans:**
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- Grease the inside of each coffee can with butter or a non-stick spray. If using raisins, sprinkle them at the bottom of the cans.
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2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
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- In a large bowl, sift together rye flour, whole wheat flour, cornmeal, baking soda, and salt.
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3. **Add Wet Ingredients:**
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- In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses and buttermilk.
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- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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4. **Fill the Cans:**
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- Pour the batter into the prepared coffee cans, filling them about two-thirds full to allow room for the bread to expand as it cooks.
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5. **Cover and Steam:**
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- Cover the tops of the cans with aluminum foil and secure with rubber bands.
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- Place the cans in a large pot and add water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the cans.
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- Bring the water to a simmer, then cover the pot. Steam the bread for about 2 hours, checking occasionally to make sure the water hasn’t evaporated. Add more boiling water as needed.
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6. **Check for Doneness:**
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- The bread is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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7. **Cool and Unmold:**
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- Remove the cans from the pot and allow the bread to cool slightly before unmolding. Run a knife around the inside of the can to help release the bread.
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8. **Serve:**
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- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Brown bread is particularly delicious when slathered with butter or served with cream cheese.
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This brown bread is an excellent complement to the rich flavors of Boston baked beans, providing a hearty and traditional New England meal. The bread's slight sweetness and dense texture make it a unique and beloved component of the region’s culinary heritage. |