Baked Lima Beans

Introduction

History

The history of Baked Lima Beans dates back centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in American cuisine. Lima beans, native to South America, were introduced to North America and Europe by Spanish and Portuguese explorers. The method of baking beans slowly in a sauce became popular in the United States, particularly in New England, leading to various regional adaptations, including this savory version with bacon, corn syrup, and catsup.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Lima Beans turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Soak the lima beans overnight to reduce cooking time and make them more digestible.

- Simmer the beans gently to keep them intact and prevent them from becoming mushy.

- Adding bacon not only infuses the dish with a smoky flavor but also adds a delightful texture contrast.

- For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions before adding them to the beans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Lima Beans as a main dish with a side of crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The slow baking technique is crucial for this recipe, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beans to become perfectly tender. For a quicker version, consider using canned lima beans and reducing the baking time accordingly.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative.

- Replace corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener option.

- If catsup is not available, a mixture of tomato sauce and a touch of vinegar can be used as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious. Simply reheat in the oven or on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baked Lima Beans in a rustic, oven-to-table dish for a homely presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of this dish. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Lima Beans contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a hearty option that can serve as a main dish or a substantial side.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from lima beans and corn syrup. Lima beans contain complex carbohydrates, which are broken down slowly by the body, providing sustained energy. One serving of Baked Lima Beans contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the bacon. While bacon adds flavor, it also contributes saturated fats. However, by choosing lean cuts or substituting with turkey bacon, you can reduce the fat content. Each serving contains about 10 grams of fat, with 3 grams being saturated fat.

Proteins

Lima beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish a great option for vegetarians when the bacon is omitted or substituted. With the inclusion of bacon, the protein content is further increased. Each serving provides roughly 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Lima beans are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. These nutrients support various bodily functions, from muscle health to energy production. This dish is particularly high in potassium, with about 800 mg per serving.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with sensitivities to legumes should avoid lima beans. Always check the labels of processed ingredients like catsup for additional allergens.

Summary

Baked Lima Beans is a nutritious dish, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty, comforting meal that supports a balanced diet.

Summary

Baked Lima Beans is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients into a comforting and nutritious meal. With its rich history, versatile serving options, and health benefits, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Baked Lima Beans. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was known far and wide for her delicious cooking, had received a visit from a distant cousin who brought with her a recipe book filled with all sorts of exotic dishes.

As I watched my grandmother and this cousin pore over the pages of the book, I couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. I wanted to learn how to cook like my grandmother, to create dishes that would be talked about and cherished for generations to come. And so, I made it my mission to learn everything I could from her, starting with that recipe for Baked Lima Beans.

My grandmother, being the kind and generous soul that she was, agreed to teach me how to make the dish. She showed me how to soak the dried beans overnight, how to season them with a blend of herbs and spices, and how to bake them in the oven until they were tender and delicious. I watched in awe as she worked her magic in the kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that was truly something special.

As I learned how to make the Baked Lima Beans, my grandmother shared with me the story of how she had first come across the recipe. It had been many years ago, during a trip to visit a distant relative in a neighboring village. This relative, who was known for her culinary skills, had served the dish at a family gathering, and my grandmother had been so impressed with the flavors and textures that she had begged for the recipe.

After much cajoling and pleading, the relative had finally relented and shared the recipe with my grandmother. And now, all these years later, my grandmother was passing that same recipe on to me, her eager and enthusiastic granddaughter.

As I continued to learn from my grandmother, I discovered that there was more to cooking than just following a set of instructions. I learned about the importance of patience, of taking the time to let flavors develop and meld together. I learned about the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, of creating memories that would last a lifetime.

And so, armed with my newfound knowledge and skills, I set out to make the Baked Lima Beans on my own. I carefully measured out the ingredients, soaked the beans overnight, and seasoned them just as my grandmother had taught me. As I slid the dish into the oven and waited for the aroma of bubbling beans and spices to fill the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When the Baked Lima Beans emerged from the oven, golden brown and steaming hot, I knew that I had done my grandmother proud. And as I sat down to enjoy the dish with my family, I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through generations.

Now, whenever I make Baked Lima Beans, I think back to that day when I first saw the recipe in my grandmother's hands. I remember the sense of wonder I felt, the excitement of learning something new and delicious. And I am grateful for the gift that my grandmother gave me, the gift of her knowledge, her love, and her passion for cooking.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bacon Recipes | Baked Bean Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Lima Bean Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients