Ham And Dried Limas
A hearty Southern classic featuring tender lima beans and savory ham, seasoned with onions and red pepper for a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse dried lima beans in a colander and remove any stones or other non-bean matter.
- In a Dutch oven, bring beans, ham, and enough water to fill the pan three-quarters full to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add the chopped onion, salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of dried red pepper to taste.
- Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender, which may take from 1 to 3 hours.
- Add additional water as needed to prevent mixture from sticking to the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or smoked paprika while cooking. If you don't have dried lima beans, you can substitute with canned beans; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham and dried limas with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Spanish Rice Skillet for a complete dinner. Consider topping with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. This dish can also be a filling side for grilled meats or a main course on its own.
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 saucepan over medium heat and add a splash of water if the mixture seems dry. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for quick servings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Dried Limas contains roughly 363 calories, with 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1155mg per serving (50% 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 fresh lima beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh lima beans, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time since they cook faster than dried beans. Fresh beans typically take about 30-45 minutes to become tender, so add them to the pot after the ham and onions have cooked for a while.
What can I serve with ham and dried limas?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, try it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or even as a filling in tacos.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and can be easily mashed between your fingers. Stir occasionally and check for doneness, adding more water as needed to keep the beans submerged and prevent sticking.
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).