You’ve stumbled upon a goldmine of flavor with this lima beans recipe. If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a hearty dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul. Let’s jump right into creating a dish that might just become your next favorite comfort food!

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before we get our hands dirty, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment to make this lima beans recipe sing. Make sure you have:

A large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life. I’ve laid it out in a clear table to make sure you’ve got everything on hand.

Ingredient	Quantity
Dried lima beans	1 cup
Vegetable broth	4 cups
Carrot, diced	1 medium
Onion, chopped	1 large
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Thyme (dried)	1 teaspoon
Bay leaf	1 leaf
Salt	To taste
Ground black pepper	To taste

Did you know? Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are named after the city of Lima, Peru, and have been cultivated there for thousands of years!

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Lima Beans

Rinse the lima beans thoroughly in cold water.
In a large pot, soak the beans in 4 cups of water for at least 4 hours, or overnight if time allows.

Note: Soaking the beans reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.

Step 2 – Cook the Beans

Drain and rinse the beans after soaking.
In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and garlic, sauté until they are soft and translucent.
Add the carrots and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Warning: Keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly and turn bitter.

Step 3 – Simmer

Return the lima beans to the pot.
Add the vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover and let it cook for about an hour, or until the beans are tender.

Fact: Thyme not only adds flavor but also pairs perfectly with the creaminess of lima beans.

Additional Tips

If the lima beans recipe seems too thick, add water or more broth to adjust the consistency.
The flavors deepen if left to sit overnight; consider making this dish in advance.

Pairing Suggestions

This hearty lima beans dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad or steamed green vegetables to add a touch of freshness. Here are a few suggestions:

Steamed broccoli
Green salad with a light vinaigrette
Garlic bread

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you can expect in terms of nutrition per serving.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	200 kcal
Protein	10 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fat	5 g

Approximation Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Dietary Information

This lima beans recipe is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan version, ensure the broth is vegetable-based. It’s low in fat and high in fiber, making it a healthy choice for various diets.

FAQs about Lima Beans

What are the health benefits of lima beans?

Lima beans are a fantastic source of fiber and protein, making them excellent for digestion and maintaining muscle health.

Can I use canned lima beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lima beans to save time. Just reduce the cooking time since they’re already soft.

How do I store leftover lima beans?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this lima beans recipe?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just thaw and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

What can I add to this recipe for more flavor?

Consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra flavor kick.

Are lima beans keto-friendly?

Due to their high carb content, lima beans are not typically suitable for a ketogenic diet.

Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, lima beans are ideal for slow cooking. Just adjust the liquid levels and set your cooker to low for 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

This lima beans recipe is not just simple to make but also brimming with nutrition and flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can stand alone or complement various sides. Give it a try and see how it can become a staple in your meal planning.

Feel free to leave comments, questions, or additional tips below. I love hearing how my recipes turn out for you and any tweaks you might have made!

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