Boston Brown Bread. Mrs. S. E. Barlow. Recipe

Boston Brown Bread is a traditional New England dish that has been enjoyed for many generations. Its unique flavor and texture make it a beloved part of American cuisine. This recipe, provided by Mrs. S. E. Barlow, offers a delicious version of this classic bread.

Before we dive into the recipe, let's explore some fun facts and the history behind Boston Brown Bread.

Boston Brown Bread originated in the early 19th century when it was a popular bread among the working class in Boston. It was commonly made with cornmeal, rye flour, and molasses, which were more affordable ingredients at the time. The bread was often steamed instead of baked due to limited access to ovens.

Now, let's move on to the recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pints sour milk
- 1 cup baking molasses
- Scant teaspoon soda
- 2 cups graham flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour milk and baking molasses.
2. In another small bowl, dissolve the scant teaspoon of soda in a little bit of water until it starts to foam.
3. Add the foaming soda to the milk and molasses mixture and stir well.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the graham flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
6. Grease one-pound baking powder cans and divide the batter equally between them, filling each can about two-thirds full.
7. Cover the cans tightly with aluminum foil or baking parchment, securing them with kitchen twine to prevent any water from entering during the steaming process.
8. Place the cans in a large pot and pour in enough water to reach halfway up the sides of the cans.
9. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and steam the bread for two and a half hours.
10. After steaming, remove the cans from the pot and let them cool slightly.
11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
12. Remove the foil or parchment from the cans and place them on a baking sheet.
13. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for an additional 30 minutes to develop a crust on top.
14. Once baked, remove the cans from the oven and let the bread cool before removing it from the cans.
15. Slice and serve the Boston Brown Bread warm or at room temperature.

Boston Brown Bread is traditionally served with butter, cream cheese, or Boston Baked Beans. It also goes well with savory toppings like smoked salmon, pickled herring, or even as a base for a sandwich. Its naturally sweet taste from the molasses makes it a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Similar dishes to Boston Brown Bread include other steamed bread variations like Irish Brown Bread, Indian Pudding, and Hasty Pudding. These dishes share similar cooking methods and ingredients, highlighting the influence of steamed bread in different cultures.

Now that you have this wonderful recipe, you can create your own Boston Brown Bread and enjoy a taste of New England tradition.