Lima Beans With Bacon
Creamy lima beans simmered with smoky bacon, red pepper, onion, and garlic, offering hearty comfort and bold flavors perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the lima beans and soak in cold water for about 1 hour.
- Put the bacon or salt pork in a large pot.
- Cover with boiling water and add crushed red pepper, chopped onion, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer until bacon is tender, about 30 minutes.
- Drain the lima beans well.
- Add the soaked lima beans to the bacon or salt pork mixture.
- Taste and add more red pepper, salt, and pepper if necessary.
- Simmer covered over low heat for about 1 hour, adding more water if necessary to prevent drying out.
- Slice the bacon or salt pork and serve on top of the beans if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you can't find dried lima beans, you can substitute with canned ones, but reduce the cooking time accordingly. To enhance the dish, try adding diced tomatoes or bell peppers during the simmering stage. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lima beans with bacon alongside cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. A side of coleslaw or steamed vegetables complements the dish nicely. For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing with chopped parsley or green onions before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with Golden Topped Meat Loaf for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, covered with a damp paper towel, for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Beans With Bacon contains roughly 79 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 471mg per serving (20% 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 a different type of bean?
Yes, while lima beans are traditional, you can substitute with other white beans like cannellini or navy beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different beans may have varying soak and cook times.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and creamy on the inside. Test by tasting a few; they should be soft but still hold their shape. If they are still firm, continue simmering and check every 10 minutes.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the bacon or salt pork and use vegetable broth for added flavor. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky taste, making it a delicious vegetarian alternative.
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).