Lima Bean Chowder
A hearty and comforting Lima Bean Chowder combines smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and creamy white sauce, perfect for a satisfying meal that highlights fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the bacon and cook until crisp.
- Drain the bacon and set aside.
- In bacon fat, cook minced onions until lightly browned.
- Add cooked bacon, diced potatoes, diced carrots, lima beans, and salt to the pot.
- Cover with boiling water and cook until vegetables are tender.
- Add the medium white sauce, heat through, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the chowder. If you don't have medium white sauce on hand, a simple béchamel made with butter, flour, and milk can be a great substitute. You can also use frozen lima beans if fresh ones aren't available, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lima Bean Chowder hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Braised Seasoned Pork Chops, which will complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Bean Chowder contains roughly 998 calories, with 30g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (181% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2889mg per serving (126% 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 make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chowder vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using olive oil or butter for sautéing the onions. You could also add more vegetables for added flavor and texture, such as bell peppers or celery.
How can I thicken the chowder if it's too thin?
If your chowder is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering chowder. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans or potatoes to add body to the soup.
Can I freeze leftover chowder?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Lima Bean Chowder. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if necessary.
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).