Butter Beans And Ham Bits
A hearty dish featuring tender lima beans simmered with savory ham bits, seasoned with pepper and a touch of sugar, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice small bits of ham from the shank end.
- Cook ham bits in a large saucepan in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Add frozen lima beans and pepper to the saucepan.
- Return to boiling, then reduce heat.
- Cook according to package directions for the lima beans.
- Add sugar and cook for 1 minute more.
- Drain well before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic when cooking the ham bits. If you can't find baby lima beans, you can substitute with canned lima beans; just reduce the cooking time. To add a touch of acidity, a splash of vinegar can brighten the dish. This recipe is a great way to use leftover ham, similar to the way you might use it in Ham With Raisin Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Butter Beans and Ham Bits alongside cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a comforting breakfast option, try serving it with Make Ahead Eggs for a delightful start to your day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Beans And Ham Bits contains roughly 51 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute baby lima beans with other beans such as navy beans or even black-eyed peas, although cooking times may vary. Just ensure that the beans are cooked until tender but not mushy for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the beans. Adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke can give it a similar depth of flavor without the meat. This makes a delicious alternative for those following a vegetarian diet.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the pot when cooking the ham bits. You can also stir in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to taste. This adds a wonderful heat that complements the flavors perfectly.
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).