Lima Beans In Tomato Sauce
A hearty dish of tender lima beans simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of chili spice, perfect for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry chopped bacon in a pan until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- Add remaining ingredients to the bacon fat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until thickened.
- Sprinkle cooked beans with bacon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked paprika instead of chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke for flavor. You can also use fresh tomatoes in season, but canned tomatoes are a great option for convenience. Browning the bacon adds richness, so don't skip that step.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lima Beans In Tomato Sauce as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or BBQ, such as Honey Glaze Ham. It pairs excellently with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. For a fresh touch, consider a side of Kay'S Vegetable Salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture gets too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Beans In Tomato Sauce contains roughly 1143 calories, with 7g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 751mg per serving (33% 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 frozen lima beans instead of dry?
Yes, frozen lima beans can be used for convenience. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the tomato sauce. This will save time and ensure a tender texture in your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider increasing the amount of chili powder or adding a chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing each guest to customize their spice level.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
For a substitute, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to replicate the flavor of brown sugar. Alternatively, maple syrup or honey can work, but adjust the quantity to taste as they are sweeter.
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).