Barbecued Lima Beans

Barbecued Lima Beans Recipe from USA with Mustard and Chili Powder

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Barbecued Lima Beans is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the creamy texture of lima beans with the smoky essence of barbecue. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the depth of flavors and the comforting warmth of a home-cooked meal. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a barbecue or simply want to enjoy a satisfying meal with your family, this dish is sure to please.

History

The tradition of barbecuing lima beans has roots in Southern American cuisine, where both barbecue and beans play pivotal roles in the culinary landscape. This recipe has evolved over time, incorporating various ingredients to enhance its flavor profile. The addition of bacon, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce gives it a unique taste that distinguishes it from other bean dishes.

Ingredients

4.5 cups of dried baby lima beans
0.25 lb (113 g) of salt pork or bacon, diced
1 cup of chopped onions
1.25 tsp of minced garlic
3 tbsp of mustard
2 tsp of worcestershire sauce
0.25 tsp of salt
2 tsp of chili powder
4 tsp of brown sugar
0.25 cups of vinegar

How to prepare

Place the beans in a large heavy kettle; add 2 qt (1.89 liters) of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 minutes.
Cover the kettle and let it stand overnight.
Bring the mixture to a boil again and then reduce the heat.
Simmer the mixture, covered, for 40 minutes.
Drain the beans, but make sure to reserve 2 cups of the liquid.
In a skillet, render the salt pork.
Sauté the onions and garlic in the pork fat, then stir the mixture into the beans.
Add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, chili powder, brown sugar, and vinegar; stir in the reserved liquid.
Turn the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake it at 350°F (177°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the mix for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, soak the lima beans overnight. This not only shortens the cooking time but also makes the beans more digestible. When sautéing the onions and garlic, make sure they are golden brown to unlock their natural sweetness. Lastly, baking the beans after combining all the ingredients allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Barbecued Lima Beans hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. They make an excellent side dish to grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a main course with a side of cornbread.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include soaking, simmering, sautéing, and baking. Each step contributes to the development of flavors and textures in the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If baby lima beans are not available, feel free to use any other type of dried beans. Apple cider vinegar can be used in place of regular vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.

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 when reheated.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the beans in a rustic earthenware dish for a homely, comforting presentation. A sprig of fresh herbs on top adds a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Barbecued Lima Beans pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak. For a lighter meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 250 calories, making it a hearty yet reasonable option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Barbecued Lima Beans contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the lima beans themselves, which are a great source of energy.

Fats

This dish contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the bacon. Using leaner cuts or substituting with turkey bacon can reduce the fat content without compromising the flavor.

Proteins

Barbecued Lima Beans are a good source of protein, providing about 15 grams per serving. The combination of lima beans and bacon delivers a balanced amino acid profile.

Vitamins and minerals

Lima beans are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, and iron. These nutrients support various bodily functions, from energy production to oxygen transport.

Alergens

This recipe contains allergens such as mustard and may contain gluten depending on the brand of Worcestershire sauce used. Always check labels if you have specific food allergies.

Summary

Barbecued Lima Beans offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious dish that doesn't skimp on flavor.

Summary

Barbecued Lima Beans is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the comforting taste of lima beans with the smoky flavors of barbecue. With its rich nutritional profile and the ability to pair with a variety of main courses, this dish is a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Evelyn, who was known for her amazing cooking skills. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most delightful aroma of smoky barbecue and tangy beans.

"What's cooking, Evelyn?" I asked with a smile.

She turned to me with a twinkle in her eye and said, "Barbecued Lima Beans. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I watched in awe as Evelyn worked her magic in the kitchen, adding a little of this and a pinch of that to the pot of simmering beans. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

After a few hours of slow cooking, the beans were ready. Evelyn served me a heaping plateful, topped with crispy bits of bacon and a generous drizzle of her special barbecue sauce. The first bite was like a burst of flavor in my mouth - smoky, sweet, and savory all at once. I was hooked.

"Can you teach me how to make this?" I asked eagerly.

Evelyn chuckled and handed me a handwritten recipe card. "Of course, dear. Just follow these instructions and you'll be making delicious barbecued lima beans in no time."

I thanked Evelyn profusely and made a mental note to treasure this recipe forever. Little did I know that it would become a staple in my own kitchen, bringing joy to my family and friends for years to come.

As I perfected the recipe over time, I added my own twist to it, incorporating ingredients and techniques I learned from other friends and family members. Each time I made the dish, it brought back fond memories of that day in Evelyn's kitchen and the magical moment when I first tasted her barbecued lima beans.

One particular memory stands out vividly in my mind. It was my granddaughter's birthday party, and I had spent the entire day preparing a feast fit for a queen. As the guests arrived, the scent of barbecued lima beans wafted through the air, drawing everyone to the table.

My granddaughter, who was always a picky eater, hesitantly took a small bite of the beans. Her eyes widened in surprise as she savored the flavors, and before I knew it, she was asking for seconds.

"Grandma, these beans are amazing! Can you teach me how to make them?" she exclaimed.

I felt a swell of pride as I handed her the recipe card, just as Evelyn had done for me all those years ago. Watching my granddaughter carry on the tradition of making barbecued lima beans filled me with joy and a sense of fulfillment.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with countless friends and family members, each one falling in love with the dish just as I had. The secret, I tell them, is to cook the beans low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a truly unforgettable meal.

As I sit in my kitchen now, preparing a batch of barbecued lima beans for a family gathering, I can't help but reflect on the journey that brought me here. From that fateful day in Evelyn's kitchen to passing down the recipe to my granddaughter, this dish has woven itself into the fabric of my life, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And so, as I set the steaming dish of beans on the table and watch as my loved ones dig in with gusto, I know that the legacy of this recipe will continue to live on, bringing joy and nourishment to all who taste its delicious magic.