Nothin’ Much Lima Bean Soup

The aroma was always the giveaway. My grandfather, a man of few words but boundless culinary enthusiasm, would be puttering around the kitchen, humming a tuneless melody. He’d claim he was “just tidying up,” but the unmistakable scent of simmering beans and smoky ham would waft through the house, a siren call to hungry grandchildren. He’d always wave us away, muttering, “Nothin’ much,” but we knew better. It was always something special, something like this hearty, rib-sticking lima bean soup that warmed us from the inside out. To this day, the smell of this soup instantly transports me back to his cozy kitchen, filled with love, laughter, and the comforting knowledge that a good meal was always just around the corner.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: Approximately 10 cups
• Dietary Type: Not Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb lima beans, soaked in water overnight and rinsed
• 4 cups water
• 15 ounces chicken stock
• 5 ounces canned ham, broken into pieces
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced fine
• 2 scallions, trimmed and chopped
• 1/2 stalk celery, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon green pepper, diced (any kind)
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 chicken bouillon cubes (I use the big Maggi ones)

Equipment Needed

• Large cooking pot with lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Begin by ensuring your lima beans have been soaked in water overnight. This helps to soften them and reduces cooking time. In the morning, rinse the soaked beans thoroughly under cold water. This step removes any impurities released during the soaking process.
2. In a large cooking pot, combine the rinsed lima beans with 4 cups of water, 15 ounces of chicken stock, and 5 ounces of canned ham (broken into pieces). The ham adds a smoky depth of flavor to the soup.
3. Next, add 1 tablespoon of dried parsley flakes, 15 ounces of diced tomatoes with juice, 1 finely diced carrot, 2 chopped scallions, and 1/2 stalk of finely diced celery. These vegetables contribute to the soup’s overall flavor and texture.
4. Include 1 tablespoon of diced green pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of seasoning salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce for a touch of heat. The amount of hot sauce can be adjusted to suit your preference.
5. Finally, add 2 chicken bouillon cubes. These will enhance the savory flavor of the soup.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.
7. Simmer for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
8. The soup is done when the beans are tender and easily mashed with a spoon. Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before serving. Leave some beans whole for texture.
• If you don’t have canned ham, you can substitute diced bacon or leftover cooked ham. Brown the bacon or ham in the pot before adding the other ingredients for added flavor.
• Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your liking. A dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also be used to add heat.
• For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought.
• If the soup becomes too thick during cooking, add more water or chicken stock to reach your desired consistency.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Nothin’ Much Lima Bean Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a side salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Reheating in a pot over medium-low heat will help maintain the texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	107 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	21 g	20%
Total Fat	2.4 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.7 g	3%
Cholesterol	8.5 mg	2%
Sodium	766.9 mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate	14.2 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	3.2 g	12%
Sugars	3.5 g	–
Protein	7.7 g	15%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables.
• Heartier: Add diced potatoes or other root vegetables for a more substantial soup.
• Herby: Substitute fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for the dried parsley.
• Smoked Flavor: Add a smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg to the soup while it simmers. Remove before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried beans without soaking them overnight?
A: While it’s best to soak the beans, you can quick-soak them by boiling them in water for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour before rinsing and using in the recipe. Note that this may increase the overall cooking time.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Q: What can I substitute for the chicken bouillon cubes?
A: You can use chicken bouillon powder or a concentrated chicken stock base instead. Adjust the amount according to the product’s instructions.

Q: The soup is too thick. How can I thin it out?
A: Simply add more water or chicken stock until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat through.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let the humble name fool you – this Nothin’ Much Lima Bean Soup is anything but ordinary. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients, slow cooking, and a whole lot of love. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a way to use up leftover ham, this soup is sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, put on a pot, and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen. I encourage you to try it and share your variations and experiences! Bon appétit!