Pink Lima Beans
A hearty Southern-style bean and meat stew featuring tender lima beans, smoky ham hocks, and flavorful spices, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and soak the lima beans for 30 minutes.
- Wash the smoked ham hocks and sparerib tips; cook them in a separate pot until tender.
- Add the cooked meat, green pepper, tomato sauce, black pepper, and salt to the soaked lima beans.
- Season to taste and cook for 1 1/2 hours.
- Cook the meat in a separate pot until tender, then add to the lima beans.
- Cook the combined mixture for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or using smoked turkey instead of ham hocks. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with mushrooms or tempeh for depth. Make sure to soak the beans long enough to ensure even cooking; overnight soaking can improve texture. Adjust the spice level by adding cayenne or crushed red pepper if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pink lima beans with cornbread for a comforting meal, or pair with a side of collards 'n pork chops for a hearty spread. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish. This recipe also goes well with rice or quinoa for a complete dinner, making it perfect for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the dish for up to three months, but be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pink Lima Beans contains roughly 288 calories, with 14g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1363mg per serving (59% 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 dried lima beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried lima beans. Just make sure to soak them overnight and adjust cooking times accordingly. Dried beans usually take longer to cook, so plan for an additional hour or so to achieve the desired tenderness.
What can I substitute for smoked ham hocks?
If you don't have smoked ham hocks, you can use smoked turkey, bacon, or even liquid smoke for a vegetarian version. Each alternative will impart a different flavor, so choose one that fits your dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for some heat. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance, and add it during the cooking process for best results.
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).