Mom Mares Bean Soup
Mom Mares Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender lima beans, smoky ham, and savory tomatoes, perfect for family dinners and cold weather cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the dry lima beans overnight in water.
- Combine all ingredients: soaked beans, ham bone, dried onions, peeled cooking tomatoes, salt, and pepper in a large pot.
- Add water enough to cover the ham bone.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cook slowly for 2 to 3 hours, until beans are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Stir occasionally during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you don't have a ham bone, diced smoked ham or bacon can be great substitutes. Make sure to soak the beans overnight to ensure even cooking. For added texture, you might also throw in some diced carrots or celery.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty bean soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. Pair it with a light salad to balance the flavors, and consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra touch. It also pairs beautifully with Baked Fresh Ham, Southern Style for a more filling feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water if it has thickened too much. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom Mares Bean Soup contains roughly 109 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 806mg per serving (35% 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 canned beans instead of dry lima beans?
Yes, you can use canned lima beans to save time. If you opt for canned, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through. Be sure to adjust the salt since canned beans are often salted.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup becomes too thick while cooking, simply add more water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to combine; this will also help distribute the flavors.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add smoked tofu or tempeh for a smoky flavor and protein boost, making it a satisfying meal without meat.
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).