Description
Southern Lima Beans are a beloved treasure trove of flavor, nutrition, and cultural significance in Southern cuisine.
Ingredients
1 cup dried lima beans
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 ounce bacon or ham hocks
4 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1 teaspoon thyme, 1 bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1. 1. Soak the dried lima beans in water for at least 6 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse thoroughly.
2. 2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in oil or rendered bacon fat until fragrant and translucent.
3. 3. Add the soaked lima beans, chicken broth, bacon or ham hocks, black pepper, salt, and any optional seasonings.
4. 4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
5. 5. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to maintain desired consistency.
6. 6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or hot sauce.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, omit bacon or ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: lima beans, southern cuisine, comfort food