Instructions

1. In a small bowl, cover the beans with water. Allow to soak overnight.
2. Drain the beans into a colander and rinse with cold water.
3. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.
4. In a large pot, add the beans, onions, brown sugar, molasses, tomato paste, mustard and bacon strips. Add 4 cups water, salt and pepper.
5. Bring the bean mixture to a boil. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook the beans for 4 hours, adding 1/2 cup water whenever the pot becomes dry.
6. Allow to cool until ready to serve, about 15 minutes.
7. Salt and pepper, to taste.