Lima Beans And Pears
A comforting blend of sweet pears and hearty lima beans, slow-baked to develop rich flavors; perfect for those who enjoy rustic, nourishing dishes with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a heavy casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 200°F (93°C) for 12 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to enhance the dish. If fresh pears are unavailable, canned or frozen pears can be used, though they may alter the texture slightly. To shorten cooking time, pre-cook the limas for about 30 minutes before baking. This dish pairs beautifully with Peach Or Apricot Hot Tea Mix for a delightful beverage.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served warm as a side or a main vegetarian entree. It complements roasted meats beautifully, so consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork. For a unique twist, try pairing it with Polish Stir-Fry for a fusion meal that highlights both flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the beans and pears in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Beans And Pears contains roughly 1109 calories, with 19g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1700mg per serving (74% 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 frozen?
Yes, fresh lima beans can be used instead of frozen. However, they will need a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly and ensure they are tender before serving.
What type of pears work best for this recipe?
Bartlett or Bosc pears are ideal for this recipe due to their sweetness and texture. Avoid overly soft pears, as they may become mushy during the long cooking process.
Can I add other ingredients to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. You could also add diced apples for an extra layer of flavor or even a touch of horseradish for a surprising kick.
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).