Shanty Beans
Shanty Beans are hearty, smoky lima beans cooked with bacon and brown sugar, creating a sweet and savory dish perfect for comfort food lovers and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the lima beans and place them in a 5-quart kettle.
- Add water to cover the beans and include the bacon cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Cook the mixture for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add the brown sugar and continue cooking for another 30 minutes, or until the beans are soft.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you don't have lima beans, you can substitute with navy beans or great northern beans. To make the dish vegetarian, use tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative. Adjust the brown sugar to your taste or try maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shanty Beans as a hearty main dish or as a side to grilled meats. They pair wonderfully with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, enjoy them alongside Pork Balls With Rice or even a bowl of Diet Chili for a filling dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Shanty Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shanty Beans contains roughly 345 calories, with 3g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1199mg per serving (52% 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 soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may take longer to soften compared to canned beans. Make sure to add enough water to cover them throughout the cooking process.
What can I add for more flavor?
Consider adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the pot for additional flavor. You can also sprinkle in some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. A splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall taste as well.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Shanty Beans freeze well! Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
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).