Southern Lima Butter Beans With Ham Bits

The scent of simmering butter beans always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I can almost feel the warmth of the sun on my face as I sat on her porch, helping her shell the tiny green beans from their pods. It wasn’t just a chore; it was a ritual filled with stories, laughter, and the anticipation of the delicious meal to come. Now, even though I buy my beans pre-packaged, the flavor still transports me to those cherished moments.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: About 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (naturally)

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen baby lima beans
• 1 cup ham, chopped into small bits
• 1 teaspoon bacon drippings (or vegetable oil for a lighter flavor)
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add the frozen baby lima beans, chopped ham, bacon drippings, salt, and pepper to the boiling water.
3. Once the mixture returns to a boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer. The goal is to maintain a gentle bubbling without letting the liquid evaporate too quickly.
4. Cover the pot and let the beans simmer for 1 1/2 hours (90 minutes). It’s important to check the pot frequently during the cooking process, about every 20-30 minutes.
5. As the beans simmer, some of the water will evaporate. Make sure there are at least 2 cups of liquid remaining in the pot. If the water level drops too low, add a little more water to prevent the beans from scorching. The beans should be tender and surrounded by a flavorful broth.
6. After 1 1/2 hours, check the beans for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork. If they are still firm, continue to simmer for another 15-30 minutes, checking periodically.
7. Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a little more salt or pepper to your preference. Keep in mind the ham can be salty, so add salt carefully.
8. Once the beans are tender and the broth has thickened slightly, remove the pot from the heat.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hock instead of diced ham. Simmer the ham hock with the beans and remove it before serving.
• If you don’t have bacon drippings on hand, you can substitute with a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Bacon drippings add a distinct smoky flavor, but other fats will still provide richness.
• To speed up the cooking process, you can soak the frozen baby lima beans in water for a few hours before cooking. This will help to rehydrate them and reduce the simmering time. However, frozen beans cook quickly, so this isn’t strictly necessary.
• If you want a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans with a fork after they are cooked. This will help to thicken the broth and create a more decadent dish. Be careful not to mash all the beans.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. A bay leaf added during cooking can add depth of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
• Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce at the end of cooking to brighten the flavor of the dish.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Southern Lima Butter Beans with Ham Bits hot, as a side dish to grilled chicken, pork chops, or a hearty piece of beef. They also pair well with cornbread or biscuits for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little water if needed to prevent them from drying out. You can also reheat them in the microwave.

The beans can also be frozen for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Please note that this is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	280 kcal	14%
Total Fat	5g	6%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	600mg	26%
Total Carbohydrate	45g	16%
Dietary Fiber	15g	54%
Sugars	2g
Protein	20g	40%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ham and bacon drippings. Substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also add chopped mushrooms or other vegetables for added texture and flavor.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the pot during cooking for a spicy kick.
• Smoked: Use smoked ham hock or smoked turkey leg instead of regular ham for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Different Beans: While this recipe is specifically for baby lima beans, you can use other types of beans such as great northern beans or cannellini beans. Cooking times may vary depending on the type of bean.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Add a sprig of fresh herbs to the pot during cooking and remove it before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried lima beans instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can. Soak them overnight, then adjust cooking time as needed. They will likely require much longer simmering to become tender.

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

Q: How do I prevent the beans from becoming mushy?
A: Avoid overcooking the beans. Check for tenderness frequently after 1 hour of simmering.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Certainly. Onions, celery, carrots, and garlic can be added at the beginning for enhanced flavor.

Q: What’s the best way to thicken the broth?
A: Simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to allow the broth to reduce. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans to create a creamier consistency.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to try this simple yet satisfying Southern Lima Butter Beans with Ham Bits recipe. It’s a taste of home, a comforting reminder of simpler times. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking, experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback and creations – I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Serve this delicious dish with some crusty bread and a refreshing glass of iced tea for a complete Southern experience.