Baked Lima Beans(From 1975 Edition)
Hearty baked lima beans with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy catsup, perfect for family gatherings or comfort food cravings, offering a rich, savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the dried limas with cold water, bring to a boil, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain the beans.
- In a large roasting pan, layer the cooked beans with the finely cut bacon, brown sugar, and minced onions.
- Add catsup and enough cold water almost to cover the ingredients.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 4 hours.
- Stir the mixture after 1 hour of baking and add salt to taste.
- Do not stir again after the first stir.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the bean mixture. If you don't have bacon, diced ham or smoked sausage can be a great substitute. Make sure to soak the lima beans overnight for a more tender texture, or use canned beans for a quicker option; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
These baked lima beans are perfect as a hearty side dish for barbecues or potlucks, pairing well with cornbread or coleslaw. They also complement meat dishes like roast chicken or grilled pork recipes. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. They can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Lima Beans(From 1975 Edition) contains roughly 161 calories, with 2g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lima beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use frozen lima beans, which will cut down on the cooking time significantly. Just thaw them before adding to the roasting pan and reduce the baking time to about 1.5 to 2 hours, checking for doneness as you go.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the bacon and substitute with smoked tofu or a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also enhance the flavor by adding liquid smoke to mimic the smokiness traditionally provided by bacon.
What can I serve with baked lima beans?
Baked lima beans pair beautifully with dishes like grilled meats, especially pork recipes, or as a protein-rich option in a vegetarian spread. Consider serving them alongside cornbread and a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).