Savory Beans
Savory Beans combine tender lima beans with smoky bacon, sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for hearty family dinners or comfort food lovers seeking a rich, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans and cook for 1 hour after coming to a boil. Save the bean water.
- Add brown sugar, dry mustard, and tomato soup to the cooked beans.
- Fry the bacon until crispy.
- Add the bacon fat and bacon to the bean mixture.
- Bake in a 300°F oven for 2 hours.
- Let the dish stand before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic while cooking the beans. If you're short on time, canned large limas can be used as a substitute, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also swap the bacon for smoked turkey for a lighter option. For added spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. This recipe is reminiscent of American recipes that focus on hearty, comforting meals.
Serving Suggestions
These savory beans are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or alongside cornbread, such as Mother'S Cornbread. A fresh green salad, like Wilted Spinach Salad A L'Orange, complements the richness beautifully. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh herbs for added color and flavor. They also make a hearty main for a vegetarian meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until warmed through. For longer storage, consider freezing the beans in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Beans contains roughly 401 calories, with 9g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 beans instead of canned?
Yes, using dried beans is a great option! Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before following the rest of the recipe. This may require slightly longer cooking times, so keep an eye on them during the initial boil.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and replace it with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor profile. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of water can enhance the overall taste of the beans.
What can I serve with savory beans?
Savory beans pair wonderfully with various dishes. Consider serving them with grilled meats, like chicken or pork, or as a filling side to a hearty meal. They also go well with cornbread or a fresh salad, providing a nice balance of flavors.
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).