Steamy Raisin Molasses Bread: Boston Brown Delight

Boston Brown Bread Recipe

🕒 Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
🥘 Yield: 2 loaves

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups boiling water

Instructions:

1. Prepare Cans:

   • Remove labels from two empty 21-ounce cans.
   • Wash cans thoroughly.
   • Grease cans generously.

2. Line Cans:

   • Cut out two circles of waxed paper to fit the bottom of each can.
   • Place one waxed paper circle in the bottom of each greased can.

3. Plump Raisins:

   • In a bowl, put the raisins and cover them with hot water.
   • Let them stand for 15 to 30 minutes to plump.
   • Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.

4. Prepare Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine rye flour, cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
   • Stir until the dry ingredients are well mixed.

5. Prepare Wet Ingredients:

   • In another bowl, combine molasses, brown sugar, and warm buttermilk.
   • Stir until the mixture is well combined.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

   • Pour the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

7. Add Raisins:

   • Fold in the plumped raisins until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

8. Fill Cans:

   • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cans.

9. Steam Bread:

   • Cover each can with greased aluminum foil.
   • Tie the foil around the top with cotton string or dental floss to secure it.
   • Place a wire rack in the bottom of a large kettle with a lid.
   • Place the cans on the rack.
   • Pour enough boiling water into the kettle to come halfway up the sides of the cans.
   • Cover the kettle with the lid and steam the cans at a slow boil for at least 2 hours.
   • Check periodically and add more water to the kettle as needed to maintain the water level.

10. Test for Doneness:

    • The bread is done when a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.

11. Cool and Remove from Cans:

    • Remove the cans from the water and carefully remove the aluminum foil.
    • Allow the bread to cool to lukewarm temperature before attempting to remove it from the cans.
    • If the bread resists coming out, run a thin knife blade around the inside of the can and gently shake out the bread.

This Boston Brown Bread recipe yields two delicious loaves that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy this wholesome and hearty bread as a tasty snack or accompaniment to your favorite meals.