Lima bean and ham soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days or whenever you need a nourishing meal.
This soup is rich with the flavors of tender lima beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables, creating a satisfying and wholesome bowl that’s sure to please.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes soaking time)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Difficulty: Easy
The Necessary Ingredients (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)
To make this delicious lima bean and ham soup, gather the following ingredients. Feel free to adjust based on your taste or dietary preferences.
- 1 pound dried lima beans (soaked overnight or for at least 8 hours)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Alternative Ingredients:
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit the ham or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika for extra smokiness if you’re not using ham.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
The Steps of Preparation (Possible in All Kinds of Variations)
Follow these steps to create a hearty and flavorful lima bean and ham soup:
- Soak the Beans:
- Start by soaking the dried lima beans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse the beans before using.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Beans and Broth:
- Stir in the drained lima beans, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer the soup for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the lima beans are tender.
- Add the Ham:
- Stir in the diced ham and continue to cook for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
This lima bean and ham soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- High in Protein: Both lima beans and ham provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Fiber: Lima beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This soup contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, and potassium from the vegetables and beans.
- Low in Fat: The soup is naturally low in fat, especially if you use a lean cut of ham and cook with minimal oil.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
Customize your lima bean and ham soup with these simple additions:
- Greens: Stir in some chopped kale, spinach, or collard greens during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
- Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra herbal notes.
- Smoked Ham Hock: For a deeper, smokier flavor, cook the soup with a smoked ham hock and remove it before serving.
- Potatoes: Add diced potatoes to the soup for extra heartiness.
- Tomatoes: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Q&A
Can I use canned lima beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lima beans to save time. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I serve with this soup?
Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, lima bean and ham soup freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work just as well. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs if substituting with dried.
Is this soup suitable for kids?
Yes, this soup is mild in flavor and nutritious, making it a great option for kids.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, after sautéing the vegetables, transfer them to a slow cooker with the beans, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
What if my soup is too thick?
Add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I add other beans?
Yes, you can mix in other beans like navy beans or great northern beans for variety.
What if I don’t eat pork?
You can substitute the ham with turkey or chicken, or use a plant-based alternative.
This lima bean and ham soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, this soup is sure to satisfy. Enjoy sharing this delicious recipe with friends and family—they’ll love it just as much as you do!
