lima bean ham soup recipe

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

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite lima bean ham soup recipe. This hearty and comforting soup has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. The dish originates from traditional American cuisine, where it was often served at family gatherings and special occasions.

The rich flavor of the lima beans and the savory taste of the ham make this soup a perfect choice for a cold winter’s day or a cozy night in with the family. One of the key techniques to making this soup truly special is to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh lima beans and thick-cut ham. This attention to detail will elevate the flavor and texture of the soup, making it a true delight for your taste buds.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. The lima beans add a nice texture and fiber to the soup, while the ham provides a rich and savory flavor.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making this soup. They enjoy mashing up the lima beans with their spoons, watching them blend into a smooth consistency. As for storage, I recommend letting the soup cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it.

This will help prevent bacterial growth and keep the soup fresh for longer. When reheating, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Lima Bean Ham Soup

Lima Bean Ham Soup

4.9 from 1882 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with tender lima beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. This slow-simmered soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4Then add the drained lima beans, ham bone or diced ham, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper.
5Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
6Simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the lima beans are tender and creamy when pressed against the side of the pot.
7If using a ham bone, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly.
8Cut off any remaining meat, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return the meat to the soup.
9Discard the bone.
10Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
11Remove the bay leaf.
12Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Soaking the lima beans overnight reduces cooking time. For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.

Watch Video Of How Lima Bean Ham Soup Works

This lima bean ham soup is a recipe I turn to again and again because it is so easy to make and always satisfies. It works perfectly for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a quiet dinner at home.

I love that I can make it ahead of time and reheat it without losing any flavor. For serving, I like to top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a crack of black pepper.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for several days, and the soup actually tastes better the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.

This recipe is a true keeper that brings comfort and warmth to any table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lima Bean Ham Soup

Q1: What type of ham should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using a thick-cut ham, such as prosciutto or country ham. These types of hams have a rich flavor and a meaty texture that pairs perfectly with the lima beans.

Q2: Can I use frozen lima beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen lima beans if you can’t find fresh ones in season. However, keep in mind that frozen lima beans may have a slightly different texture and flavor than fresh ones.

Q3: How long does this soup take to prepare?

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, taking about 30 minutes to an hour from start to finish. You can also prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time, such as chopping the onions or dicing the ham.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to this soup if you like. Some options include diced carrots, chopped celery, or sliced potatoes.

Q5: How do I store leftover soup?

Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

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