Maple-Apple Beans

Rinse beans and sort, if necessary, discarding any blemished ones and any grit.

In large Dutch oven or stockpot, cover beans with 3 times their volume of water. Bring to boil; boil gently for 2 minutes. Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 1 hour. Drain, discarding liquid.

Return soaked beans to pot along with 3 times their volume of fresh water. Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30 to 45 minutes or until tender. Drain, reserving 2 cups (500 mL) cooking liquid.

Meanwhile, dice bacon; set aside. In bowl, and using potato masher, mash tomatoes in their juice.

In bean pot or 16-cup (4 L) casserole, combine beans, reserved cooking liquid, bacon, tomatoes, apples, vinegar, onions, ketchup, maple syrup, sugar, mustard, salt and pepper.

Bake covered in 300°F (150°C) oven for 2 hours. Uncover and bake for 1 to 1-1/2 hours longer or until sauce is thickened and coats beans well.