As the weather begins to cool down and the leaves start to change, many people turn to comfort foods to warm themselves up. One such dish that has been a favorite for generations is lima bean and ham soup. In this blog, I will share with you a lima bean and ham soup recipe that is extremely delicious. This nourishing soup offers both comfort and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a flavorful and wholesome meal that is simple to prepare.
Lima bean and ham soup is an excellent option for individuals who prioritize both taste and health. With just a few simple ingredients, this soup can be whipped up in no time and enjoyed by the whole family.
When it comes to classic comfort foods, few dishes are as beloved as lima bean and ham soup. This hearty soup has been a staple in American households for generations, providing warmth and sustenance to families during cold winter nights. However, this soup offers more than just a satisfying meal, as it contains an array of essential nutrients that can contribute to maintaining a healthy body.
How To Make Lima Bean And Ham Soup
As more and more people look for ways to incorporate plant-based foods into their diets, lima bean, and ham soup may not be the first dish that comes to mind. This soup offers an appealing option for individuals seeking a plant-based meal that is both nourishing and flavorsome. Lima beans, being an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients, provide a healthy foundation for the dish. Moreover, substituting ham with other plant-based protein sources, like seitan or tofu, renders the soup suitable for vegan or vegetarian preferences without compromising on taste or nutritional value.
Ingredients To Make Lima Bean And Ham Soup
- butter 1/4 cup
- onion chopped 1 1/2 cups
- carrots diced 1 cup
- garlic powder 1 1/2 teaspoons
- lemon juice 1 tablespoon
- unsalted garlic and herb seasoning 1 teaspoon
- ham diced 1 1/2 cups
- baby lima beans frozen 10 ounces
- fresh parsley chopped 1/2 cup
- dried marjoram 2 teaspoons
- 4 cups water, or unsalted chicken or vegetable stock
- Freshly ground black pepper, Salt to taste
Step By Step Instructions To Make Lima Bean And Ham Soup
Step1
Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients for the ham and lima bean soup.
Step2
In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot, melt the butter over medium heat until hot and the foaming subsides. Add the chopped onion and carrots and sauté, stirring frequently, for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onion is soft and starting to brown.
Step3
Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and herb seasoning to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
Step4
Add diced ham, frozen lima beans, chopped parsley, and marjoram to the pot. Pour in water or stock and stir to combine.
Step5
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally during this step.
Step6
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step7
Your ham and lima bean soup is now ready to be served hot. Enjoy!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use dried lima beans instead of canned?
A: Yes! If you prefer to use dried lima beans, you will need to soak them overnight before cooking them in the soup.
Q: Can I freeze lima bean and ham soup?
A: Yes! Lima bean and ham soup freezes well and can be stored in an airtight container for up to three months.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Lima bean and ham soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Tips And Tricks:
- To save time and effort, consider using pre-chopped or pre-diced onion and carrots, which can be found in most grocery stores.
- For added flavor, try using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a few potatoes or a can of white beans to the pot.
- To make the soup vegetarian or vegan-friendly, swap the ham for a plant-based protein source such as seitan or tofu.
- Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to three months.
- If using canned or pre-cooked lima beans instead of frozen, adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the beans.
Conclusions
In conclusion, lima bean and ham soup is a classic comfort food that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to fit different dietary needs, such as vegan or vegetarian-friendly options. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, anyone can enjoy a hearty bowl of this soup during cold winter nights.
Additionally, the soup can be frozen for future meals, making it a convenient and nutritious option for busy individuals. Try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and comfort of a classic American dish.
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- Cream Of Mushroom Soup Gravy Recipe
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Lima Bean And Ham Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups onion chopped
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon unsalted garlic and herb seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups ham diced
- 10 ounces baby lima beans frozen
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
- 4 cups water, or unsalted chicken or vegetable stock
- Freshly ground black pepper, Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients for the ham and lima bean soup.
- In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot, melt the butter over medium heat until hot and the foaming subsides. Add the chopped onion and carrots and sauté, stirring frequently, for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onion is soft and starting to brown.
- Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and herb seasoning to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add diced ham, frozen lima beans, chopped parsley, and marjoram to the pot. Pour in water or stock and stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally during this step.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Your ham and lima bean soup is now ready to be served hot. Enjoy!
Notes
- To save time and effort, consider using pre-chopped or pre-diced onion and carrots, which can be found in most grocery stores.
- For added flavor, try using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a few potatoes or a can of white beans to the pot.
- To make the soup vegetarian or vegan-friendly, swap the ham for a plant-based protein source such as seitan or tofu.
- Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to three months.
- If using canned or pre-cooked lima beans instead of frozen, adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the beans.
