As the weather cools and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of goodness to lift your spirits. And what better way to achieve that than with dried lima beans? These humble legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making them an excellent addition to a variety of dishes. From hearty stews and soups to flavorful dips and salads, we’ve gathered 20 delicious recipes featuring dried lima beans as the star of the show.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the many ways dried lima beans can be used in comforting meals that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and Southern-inspired or bold and international-flavored, there’s something on our list for everyone.
Stay tuned for some mouthwatering recipe ideas that will make your taste buds do the happy dance!
Slow-Cooked Dried Lima Bean Stew with Smoked Ham Hocks
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. The combination of tender dried lima beans, rich smoked ham hocks, and aromatic spices creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 smoked ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine lima beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove ham hocks from the pot and shred meat from bones. Return shredded ham to the stew.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Garlic and Herb Braised Dried Lima Beans
This recipe transforms dried lima beans into a tender and aromatic side dish, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. With the added depth of garlic and herbs, this braised bean dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, and bay leaf; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the lima beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the beans are tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Dried Lima Bean and Chorizo Soup
This hearty soup combines the smoky heat of chorizo with the nutty flavor of dried lima beans, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chorizo and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned.
4. Add lima beans, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Creamy Dried Lima Bean Hummus with Lemon and Tahini
This creamy hummus recipe adds a unique twist by using dried lima beans, which provide a deliciously nutty flavor. The addition of lemon juice and tahini creates a bright and refreshing dip perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine lima beans and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Drain and rinse the cooked lima beans.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
5. Add the cooked lima beans and blend until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (lentils) + 10 minutes (blending)
Southern-Style Dried Lima Beans with Bacon and Onions
Southern-Style Dried Lima Beans with Bacon and Onions: A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a side to your favorite Southern-style dishes. This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional lima beans, adding the smoky flavor of bacon and sweetness of caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the soaked and drained lima beans, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
7. Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the cooked bacon.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
Mediterranean Dried Lima Bean Salad with Feta and Olives
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of dried lima beans with the tanginess of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, rehydrated in water or broth
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the rehydrated lima beans, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the rehydration method)
Vegetarian Dried Lima Bean Chili with Sweet Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the comforting warmth of dried lima beans. Perfect for a cozy evening or a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried lima beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add lima beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Stir in roasted sweet potatoes and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Kale Soup with Parmesan
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy textures and earthy flavors, ideal for a cozy evening meal. Made with dried lima beans, kale, and topped with parmesan cheese, this recipe is a satisfying twist on traditional soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves (stemmed and chopped)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lima beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add the broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add the lima beans and kale to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lima beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Smoky Dried Lima Bean Dip with Roasted Red Peppers
A rich and smoky dip perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss red bell pepper slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked lima beans, roasted red peppers, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Blend until smooth, adding cheese (if using) towards the end of blending.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Sausage Casserole with Herbs
This comforting casserole combines the earthy flavor of dried lima beans with spicy sausage, aromatic herbs, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion, garlic, thyme, and oregano to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in lima beans, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemony Dried Lima Beans with Garlic and Thyme
This recipe brings a burst of citrusy flavor to dried lima beans, perfect for adding a nutritious and tasty twist to your meals. The combination of lemon zest, garlic, and thyme creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will elevate this humble legume.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lima beans, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest, and thyme.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Tomato Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry combines tender dried lima beans with sweet tomatoes and creamy coconut milk, perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin and curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked lima beans; season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and lima beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic Dried Lima Bean and Mushroom Ragout
This hearty, comforting dish is a perfect blend of earthy flavors and textures, made with dried lima beans and an assortment of mushrooms. Serve it over crusty bread or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, thyme, lima beans, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 30-40 minutes or until the lima beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious dish by filling them with a savory mixture of dried lima beans, spinach, and spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), any size
– 1 cup cooked dried lima beans
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lima beans, spinach, breadcrumbs, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Dried Lima Bean and Barley Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the nutty flavor of barley with the earthy sweetness of dried lima beans, fragrant herbs, and a hint of lemon. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup pearled barley
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lima beans and soak them in water or broth for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the lima beans, then sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the barley and lima beans to the pan, stirring to combine.
5. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the mixture, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the grains are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the comfort of dried lima beans with the warmth of cornbread, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine lima beans, water or broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked lima bean mixture with cornbread batter and pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes
Spiced Dried Lima Beans with Cumin and Coriander
Elevate the humble dried lima bean with a blend of warm spices, including cumin and coriander. This flavorful dish is perfect for adding depth to salads, soups, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried lima beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, and paprika to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add the lima beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and fragrant, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Chicken Stew with Rosemary
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, creamy dried lima beans, and the piney essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried lima beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the dried lima beans, chicken broth, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 30-40 minutes or until the lima beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dried Lima Bean and Pumpkin Soup with Sage
This comforting soup combines the nutty flavor of dried lima beans with the sweetness of pumpkin, all wrapped up in a fragrant sage broth. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the soaked lima beans, chicken broth, pumpkin, and sage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the lima beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Garlic Butter Dried Lima Beans with Crispy Breadcrumbs
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional lima beans, adding a rich and buttery flavor profile with a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried lima beans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine lima beans and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Drain and rinse the cooked lima beans.
4. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked lima beans to the skillet with garlic butter. Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until breadcrumbs are crispy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 hearty dried lima bean recipes! From comforting stews and soups to savory dips and salads, there’s something for everyone. Discover slow-cooked stews with smoked ham hocks, spicy soups with chorizo, creamy hummus with lemon and tahini, and many more mouthwatering options. Whether you’re a vegetarian or looking for recipes with meat, these dried lima bean creations are sure to become new favorites.