Dave'S Southern Buttered Beans And Ham Hocks
A hearty Southern dish featuring tender lima beans simmered with smoky ham hocks, infused with rich flavors, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the beans, ham hocks, and salt into a crock-pot.
- Ensure the beans are no more than half full of the crock-pot; remove some beans if necessary.
- Add enough water to cover the ingredients and cook on low until beans are tender and flavors meld, approximately 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, soak the lima beans overnight before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve texture. If you don't have smoked ham hocks, try using smoked turkey legs or even a couple of strips of bacon for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount of ham hocks based on your preference for smokiness and saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Southern Buttered Beans alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. They pair beautifully with Southern Greens And Ham Hocks for a hearty dinner. For a complete spread, consider adding a side of coleslaw or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the beans and ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the beans in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dave'S Southern Buttered Beans And Ham Hocks contains roughly 1 calories, with 0g protein and 0g carbohydrates.
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 beans instead of large lima beans?
Yes, you can substitute dried beans, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Dried large lima beans should be soaked overnight and may take longer to become tender, so check them periodically during cooking.
What can I serve with Dave's Southern Buttered Beans?
These beans are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with fried chicken, pork recipes, or even a simple green salad. They also make a great filling side for barbecued meats.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and substitute with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a smoky flavor. You can also add some sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and garlic for added depth.
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).