Native American Lima Bean and Tomato Soup

Native American Lima Bean and Tomato Soup Recipe | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Native America | Preparation time: 3.5 hours | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This Native American Lima Bean and Tomato Soup recipe is a traditional dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of lima beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a flavorful and hearty soup that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Lima beans have been a staple in Native American cuisine for centuries. They were cultivated by various tribes and used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and casseroles. This particular recipe combines lima beans with tomatoes and other ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying soup.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) dried lima beans
3 qt (2.84 liters) water
1 sprig parsley
2 onions, sliced
3 tomatoes, cored
1 chile pequin, crushed
1 tbsp salt

How to prepare

Soak the beans in 1.5 qt (1.42 liters) of water for 3.5 hours. Drain and rinse.
Place the soaked beans in a large, heavy kettle. Cover with 1.5 qt (1.42 liters) of water. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer slowly for 1 hour. *Uncover and simmer for an additional hour.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use different beans such as black beans or kidney beans for a variation on the recipe.
Stir in some cooked quinoa or rice for added texture and protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans before cooking helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

- Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.

- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, adding more salt or spices as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to develop.

- Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture, if desired.

- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned lima beans instead of dried beans for a quicker cooking time.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for added flavor.

- Use canned diced tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprig of parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Add a slice of crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal option that is relatively low in calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with only a small amount coming from the beans and other ingredients. It is a healthy option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.

Proteins

Lima beans are a good source of plant-based protein, with each serving of this soup containing approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and onions, as well as iron and potassium from the lima beans. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe does not contain any common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, if you have specific allergies, be sure to check the ingredients carefully.

Summary

Overall, this Native American Lima Bean and Tomato Soup is a nutritious and delicious option for a comforting meal. It is rich in carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded dish for any occasion.

Summary

This Native American Lima Bean and Tomato Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this soup with your family and friends for a satisfying and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living on the reservation with my family. I remember the smell of the earth after a summer rain, the sound of the wind rustling through the trees, and the taste of the delicious soup that my grandmother made for us.

I had always been fascinated by my grandmother's cooking. She was a master in the kitchen, able to create the most delicious dishes with simple ingredients. One day, as I watched her prepare dinner, she pulled out a small, tattered notebook from her apron pocket. Inside were handwritten recipes passed down from generations of our ancestors.

Curious, I asked her about the recipes and where they came from. With a twinkle in her eye, she told me stories of our Native American heritage and how these recipes had been passed down through the generations. She explained that each recipe was a piece of our history, a connection to our ancestors and the land that had sustained us for centuries.

One particular recipe caught my eye - Lima Bean and Tomato Soup. My grandmother told me that this soup was a traditional dish that had been enjoyed by our people for as long as anyone could remember. She showed me how to prepare it, carefully measuring out the ingredients and explaining the importance of each one.

The key, she said, was to use fresh lima beans and ripe tomatoes, straight from the garden. She showed me how to simmer the beans until they were tender, then add the tomatoes and seasonings to create a rich, flavorful broth. The soup was simple yet satisfying, a nourishing meal that warmed the soul as well as the body.

As I watched my grandmother cook, I felt a deep connection to my roots. I realized that these recipes were more than just instructions for making food - they were a link to my past, a way to honor the traditions of my ancestors and keep their memory alive.

Over the years, I have continued to make Lima Bean and Tomato Soup, passing down the recipe to my own children and grandchildren. Each time I prepare it, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the knowledge that has been handed down to me.

I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients to make it my own. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, the soup always brings me back to that moment in my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of home.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, eager to pass on the flavors of my heritage to anyone who is willing to try them. I have even entered it in cooking contests, where it has won praise for its unique blend of flavors and comforting warmth.

As I grow older, I find comfort in the simple act of cooking, knowing that each dish I prepare is a tribute to the generations of women who came before me. And whenever I make Lima Bean and Tomato Soup, I am reminded of the love and wisdom that has been passed down through the ages, a gift that I will always cherish.