Dive into the warm, comforting flavors of this Luscious Lima Bean Soup. This hearty soup is a delightful blend of lima beans, butter beans, fresh vegetables, and savory bacon. It's a one-pot wonder that's cooked slowly to perfection in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Photos of Luscious Lima Bean Soup Recipe
This recipe calls for some specific ingredients like lima beans and butter beans. Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are large, flat, creamy-white beans with a buttery flavor. They are commonly found in the canned goods aisle at most supermarkets. Marjoram, a less common herb, is subtly sweet and slightly bitter. It's typically found in the spice aisle. If you can't find marjoram, you can substitute it with oregano.
Ingredients for Luscious Lima Bean Soup
Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor to the soup.
Lima beans: The main ingredient, they are hearty and filling.
Butter beans: Similar to lima beans, they add creamy texture to the soup.
Potatoes: Adds bulk and makes the soup more hearty.
Celery: Adds a savory edge and nice crunchy texture.
Onions: They form the aromatic base of the soup.
Carrots: Adds a sweet note and vibrant color.
Butter: Helps to sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the soup.
Marjoram: A sweet, aromatic herb that enhances the flavor of the soup.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the soup.
Chicken broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup.
One reader, Frederique Wynn says:
This luscious lima bean soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and it's so easy to make. The combination of bacon, beans, and veggies creates a hearty and satisfying dish. It's now a staple in my kitchen, perfect for cozy nights in. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Luscious Lima Bean Soup Recipe
How to cook bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until evenly brown and crisp. Drain and crumble.
How to prepare lima bean mixture: In a slow cooker, mix the cooked bacon, lima beans, butter beans and liquid, potatoes, celery, onions, carrots, and butter.
How to season the soup: Season the lima bean mixture with marjoram, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth.
How to cook the soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook the soup for 7 hours on low.
How to serve: Serve the soup warm and enjoy.
How To Make Luscious Lima Bean Soup
Each bite of this slow cooker lima bean soup is loaded with scrumptious flavors. Made with crispy bacon, veggies, and beans for a savory and hearty bowl.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3slicesbacon
- 4cupslima beans,frozen
- 15ozbutter beans,(1 can) undrained
- 2potatoes,diced
- 2celery stalks,chopped
- 2small onions,chopped
- 3carrots,sliced
- ¼cupbutter
- ½tbspmarjoram,dried
- 1tspsalt
- ½tsppepper
- 14ozchicken broth,(3 cans)
Instructions
-
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until evenly brown and crisp. Drain and crumble.
-
In a slow cooker, mix the cooked bacon, lima beans, butter beans and liquid, potatoes, celery, onions, carrots, and butter.
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Season lima beans mixture with marjoram, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth.
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Cover slow cooker, and cook soup for 7 hours on Low.
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Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 322.00kcal
- Fat: 11.94g
- Saturated Fat: 5.55g
- Trans Fat: 0.25g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.75g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.64g
- Carbohydrates: 41.95g
- Fiber: 8.78g
- Sugar: 5.22g
- Protein: 13.24g
- Cholesterol: 23.92mg
- Sodium: 472.69mg
- Calcium: 73.39mg
- Potassium: 1040.84mg
- Iron: 4.92mg
- Vitamin A: 257.01µg
- Vitamin C: 44.29mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Luscious Lima Bean Soup
When preparing your lima bean soup, it's important to remember that the size of your vegetable cuts matter. The smaller you cut your potatoes, celery, onions, and carrots, the faster they will cook and become tender. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can cut them into larger pieces, but remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Also, don't forget to stir your soup occasionally while it's in the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Lima Bean Soup
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients the night before. This will save time and make the cooking process smoother.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned lima and butter beans instead of dried ones to skip the soaking and long cooking time.
Slow cooker magic: Utilize a slow cooker to effortlessly cook the soup while you attend to other tasks.
Bacon shortcut: Consider using pre-cooked bacon bits to save time on frying and crumbling bacon slices.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the vegetables for the soup, saving time and effort.
Quick broth: Substitute store-bought chicken broth for homemade to cut down on preparation time.
One-pot wonder: Cook the soup in a large pot on the stove instead of a slow cooker for a quicker cooking time.
Frozen veggies: Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh ones to skip the washing, peeling, and chopping steps.
Blender blitz: Use an immersion blender to quickly puree the soup instead of transferring it to a traditional blender.
Substitute Ingredients For Luscious Lima Bean Soup Recipe
lima beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a great substitute for lima beans in soups.
butter beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans have a mild flavor and creamy texture, making them a suitable replacement for butter beans in soups.
potatoes - Substitute with turnips: Turnips can be used as a lower-carb alternative to potatoes in soups, adding a slightly peppery flavor and a similar texture when cooked.
celery stalks - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a hint of licorice flavor, making it a good substitute for celery in soups.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, making them a great substitute in soups for a more delicate taste.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor than carrots, making them a good substitute in soups for a unique taste.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter in soups, adding a rich flavor and smooth texture.
marjoram - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy and slightly floral flavor to marjoram, making it a suitable substitute in soups.
salt - Substitute with tamari: Tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative to salt, adding a savory and umami flavor to soups.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder and less pungent flavor compared to black pepper, making it a good substitute in soups for a more subtle heat.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian or vegan alternative to chicken broth, adding a savory flavor to soups.
Best Way to Present Luscious Lima Bean Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the luscious lima bean soup, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a small cluster of crispy bacon bits placed delicately on top of the soup. This adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Use complementary serveware: Opt for elegant, minimalist serveware that allows the vibrant colors of the soup to take center stage. Consider using porcelain bowls or earthenware dishes for a sophisticated touch.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the rim of the bowl, ensuring it is clean and free of any drips or spills. Presentation is about the finer details, and a clean presentation reflects professionalism and care.
Balance the composition: When plating the soup, aim for a balanced composition. Consider the placement of each element to create a visually appealing arrangement that is both inviting and artful.
Highlight the ingredients: Consider creating a small, artful arrangement of the key ingredients used in the soup, such as a few whole lima beans or a slice of potato. This serves as a subtle nod to the dish's components.
Embrace negative space: Allow the soup to be the focal point of the presentation by embracing negative space on the plate. This creates a sense of elegance and sophistication.
Add a finishing touch: Before serving, carefully wipe the edges of the bowl to ensure a pristine presentation. A final touch of freshly ground black pepper adds a pop of flavor and a touch of visual interest.
Consider the overall aesthetic: Step back and assess the overall presentation from a distance. Ensure that the plating reflects a harmonious balance of color, texture, and form, creating an enticing visual experience for the diners.
Essential Tools for Making Lima Bean Soup
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for making soups, sauces, and boiling liquids.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing, frying, and searing.
Potato peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin of potatoes and other vegetables.
Can opener: A device used to open metal cans.
Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or dry ingredients.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups and stews.
Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for making soups, sauces, and boiling liquids.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing, frying, and searing.
Potato peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin of potatoes and other vegetables.
Can opener: A device used to open metal cans.
Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or dry ingredients.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups and stews.
Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
How To Store and Freeze Luscious Lima Bean Soup Recipe
- Allow the lima bean soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the soup:
- Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing.
- Frozen lima bean soup can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the soup:
- For refrigerated soup, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- For frozen soup, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or place the frozen container in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing.
- Once thawed, transfer the soup to a saucepan and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a small amount of chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste the reheated soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Lima Bean Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover lima bean soup to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure the soup is evenly reheated without burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: pour the desired amount of leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: if you have a considerable amount of leftover soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker, cover it with the lid, and set it on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is ideal if you want to reheat the soup for a later meal or keep it warm for an extended period.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and place it in the preheated oven. Heat the soup for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches the desired temperature. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating. This method is suitable if you want to reheat a large batch of soup or if you're reheating multiple dishes simultaneously.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the soup well to distribute the heat evenly and prevent hot spots. Always taste the soup before serving to ensure it's heated through and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a small amount of chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Random Fact About Luscious Lima Bean Soup
The lima bean, also known as the butter bean, is a great source of dietary fiber and protein. It is also rich in essential nutrients such as folate, magnesium, and iron, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Is Making Lima Bean Soup at Home Economical?
This luscious lima bean soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as lima beans, butter beans, and vegetables, are affordable and readily available. The addition of bacon provides a rich flavor without significantly increasing the cost. This hearty soup is a nutritious and budget-friendly option for a family meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Is This Lima Bean Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
The luscious lima bean soup recipe contains a mix of healthy and unhealthy ingredients. On the positive side, it includes:
- Nutritious vegetables like lima beans, butter beans, potatoes, celery, onions, and carrots, which provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Lean protein from the chicken broth
However, there are some concerns:
- The use of bacon adds saturated fat and sodium to the dish
- The addition of butter increases the saturated fat content
- The recipe lacks leafy greens or other colorful vegetables that could boost the nutritional value
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Omit the bacon or replace it with a leaner protein source like turkey bacon or smoked turkey
- Reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with a healthier fat like olive oil
- Include more diverse vegetables, such as kale, spinach, or bell peppers, to increase the vitamin and mineral content
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium levels
- Experiment with additional herbs and spices, like thyme or garlic, to enhance the flavor without relying on salt
- Serve the soup with a side salad or whole-grain bread to create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting soup into a more nutritious option that still satisfies your taste buds and provides the warmth and heartiness you crave.
Editor's Thoughts on This Luscious Lima Bean Soup
This luscious lima bean soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of bacon, lima beans, and butter beans creates a rich and hearty base, while the addition of potatoes, celery, onions, and carrots adds depth and complexity. The use of marjoram, salt, and pepper enhances the overall taste, and the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The end result is a comforting and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion.
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Why trust this Luscious Lima Bean Soup Recipe:
This luscious lima bean soup recipe is a testament to comfort and flavor. The combination of bacon, lima beans, and butter beans creates a rich and hearty base, while the addition of potatoes, celery, and carrots adds depth and texture. The infusion of marjoram and chicken broth brings a delightful aroma and savory essence to the soup. With a slow cooking process, the flavors meld together, resulting in a truly satisfying dish. Trust in the wholesome ingredients and meticulous preparation to deliver a soup that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
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