Lima Ham Dinner
A hearty and comforting ham and lima bean stew with vegetables and a creamy tomato flavor, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak dried lima beans overnight in water to cover.
- Drain the soaked beans.
- Combine soaked beans, diced ham, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, dry mustard, salt, pepper, condensed cream of tomato soup, and water in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you don't have dry mustard, yellow mustard can work in a pinch. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add extra vegetables or some smoked paprika for depth. Soaking the beans overnight is crucial to ensure they cook evenly and reduce cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lima Ham Dinner with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs excellently with Texas Cream Gravy for those who enjoy a richer accompaniment. This dish can be topped with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the mixture appears too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lima Ham Dinner contains roughly 273 calories, with 7g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2341mg per serving (102% 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 note that they will require less cooking time. Fresh beans typically cook in about 1-2 hours. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking them.
What can I substitute for the cream of tomato soup?
If you don't have cream of tomato soup, you can make a quick substitute using crushed tomatoes mixed with a bit of cream or milk. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce can also work, adding a touch of sugar to balance acidity.
Can I freeze Lima Ham Dinner?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
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).