Corn And Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful corn and bean soup with smoky salt pork, fresh tomatoes, and sweet corn, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice salt pork almost through in several places and place in a large kettle.
- Add 2 quarts boiling water, lima beans, chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Cook for 30 minutes.
- Add corn kernels and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or some smoked paprika to the soup while it cooks. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the salt pork with smoked tofu or tempeh for a similar depth of flavor. You can also use frozen lima beans to save time on prep. Ensure your beans are tender before adding the corn for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn and bean soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added brightness. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Mom'S Barbecue For A Crowd or a light fruit dessert to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn And Bean Soup contains roughly 217 calories, with 5g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1262mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
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 dried lima beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried lima beans in this recipe. Just soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may take longer to become tender compared to fresh beans.
What can I substitute for salt pork?
If you don't have salt pork, you can use diced ham or bacon for a similar smoky flavor. For a vegetarian option, smoked tempeh or even a touch of liquid smoke can add depth without the meat.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while the soup is cooking. You can also serve the soup with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer to spice it up individually.
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).