ham lima bean soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ham lima bean soup recipe

I’ve always been a fan of hearty, comforting soups that can be enjoyed on any occasion. One of my family’s favorite recipes is for ham and lima bean soup, a classic dish that never fails to please. It’s a staple in our household, especially during the colder months when we need something warm and nourishing to lift our spirits.

The combination of tender lima beans, rich ham, and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful broth is simply irresistible. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they always enjoy the process of adding their favorite ingredients to the pot.

This soup has become a regular fixture in our dinner rotation, and I’m happy to share the recipe with you so you can enjoy it too. I’ve learned that this soup is not just a satisfying meal but also provides numerous health benefits due to the high protein content from the ham and beans. The lima beans are also rich in fiber and vitamins, making this dish an excellent choice for families looking for wholesome meals.

When I’m short on time or don’t feel like cooking, I often rely on this recipe because it’s so quick and easy to prepare. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – we love serving it as a main course or as a side dish for special occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or hosting a more formal gathering, this soup is sure to impress your guests.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various ingredients and techniques to make this soup even more delicious. One of my favorite tips is to add some diced celery for added depth of flavor and texture. Another trick is to use low-sodium broth to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the lima beans and ham.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m excited to share it with you so you can create your own traditions around this beloved dish.

Ham Lima Bean Soup

4.8 from 1198 votes

A hearty and comforting soup featuring tender lima beans and savory ham. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups dried lima beans
6 cups water
2 cups diced ham
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the lima beans under cold water and pick out any debris.
2Place the beans in a large pot and cover with 6 cups of water.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Reduce heat to medium and let the beans simmer for 15 minutes.
5Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
6This helps remove impurities and improves the texture of the beans.
7Drain the beans and set aside.
8In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
9Add the onion, carrots, and celery.
10Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
11This should take about 5-7 minutes.
12Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
13Add the diced ham to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
14Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham to brown slightly and release its flavors.
15Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, salt, and black pepper.
16Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
17Return the drained lima beans to the pot.
18Stir well to ensure the beans are fully submerged in the liquid.
19Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
20Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
21Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom.
22The beans should be tender and the soup should have thickened slightly.
23Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
24Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
25This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
26Enjoy your hearty and comforting ham lima bean soup.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before serving. This will help thicken the soup and give it a creamier texture.

Watch Video Of How Ham Lima Bean Soup Works

Ham lima bean soup is a wonderful dish to have on hand for any occasion. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

It’s easy to make a large batch and freeze portions for later. It reheats well and the flavors only get better with time.

It’s a great way to use up leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does.

It’s a classic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Lima Bean Soup

Q: What type of ham should I use in this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you can use either boneless ham or ham hocks – both will work well depending on your personal preference. If you prefer a stronger ham flavor, use the hocks; if you prefer a milder flavor, opt for boneless ham.

Q: Can I substitute other types of beans for lima beans?

A: While lima beans are traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other types of beans if you prefer – such as navy beans or cannellini beans – just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

Q: How do I store leftover soup?

A: Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to two months – simply reheat it gently over low heat before serving.

Q: Can I make this soup in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients except for the final addition of lima beans up to two days ahead of time – then simply finish cooking it when ready.

Q: What if I want to add some extra flavor with spices or herbs?

A: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or spices – such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves – just be mindful not to overpower the delicate flavors of the lima beans and ham.

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