Boston Brown Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Generously grease 2 (1 pound) coffee cans, or 3 (1 lb.) vegetable or fruit cans, or two vegetable juice cans (pineapple or V8 work well); set aside. (The cans should only have one end removed.).
2. 2
   In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt. Add raisins and walnuts, if desired. Toss to evenly coat the raisins and nuts with the flour mixture.
3. 3
   In a medium bowl, combine the oil, water, egg, vanilla, sugar, and molasses. Mix well.
4. 4
   Stir the wet mixture into the flour mixture only until dry ingredients are moistened.
5. 5
   Turn into prepared cans, filling evenly. Cover cans tightly with 2 layers of foil; secure with string or rubber band.
6. 6
   Cook with one of the two following methods:.
7. 7
   #1: Place a rack in a large kettle or pot. Place the cans on rack. Place kettle/pot over low heat. Add boiling water until halfway up cans. Cover; bring water to a gentle boil. Steam bread 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Add more boiling water during steaming, if necessary.
8. 8
   #2: Place a rack in a large kettle or pot. Place cans on the rack. Add boiling water to the kettle/pot and cover with a lid. Place the kettle in a 325° oven and steam for 2 hours and 45 minutes, replacing boiling water as needed.
9. 9
   Carefully remove bread from cans. Cool on racks at least 30 minutes before slicing.