Slow Cooker Lima Beans and Ham Bits Recipe: A Detailed Guide

Are you looking for a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Lima Beans and Ham Bits recipe is perfect for those busy weekdays or lazy weekends. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves homely comfort food.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Lima beans	2 cups, dried
Ham bits	1 cup
Onion	1, diced
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Tomato paste	1/4 cup
Water	4 cups
Bay leaves	2
Salt	1 teaspoon
Pepper	1/2 teaspoon

Preparation

Start by rinsing the dried lima beans under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris. Then, place the beans in a slow cooker and add the ham bits, diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, water, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are well combined.

Cooking Process

Now that your ingredients are in the slow cooker, it’s time to let the magic happen. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for 8-10 hours. If you prefer a quicker cooking time, you can set it to high heat and cook for 4-5 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the beans.

After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the bay leaves and give the mixture a good stir. The lima beans should be tender and the flavors well blended. If you find that the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Lima Beans and Ham Bits recipe is versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few suggestions:

• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside your favorite main course, such as grilled chicken, baked fish, or a hearty stew.
• Over Rice: Fluff up some rice and top it with the lima beans and ham bits for a filling and satisfying meal.
• As a Soup: Add some additional water or broth to create a hearty soup that’s perfect for cold weather.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the microwave.

Health Benefits

Lima beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. They can help with digestion, weight management, and overall heart health. Adding ham bits to the dish adds a touch of savory flavor and provides additional protein and iron.

Conclusion

With this Slow Cooker Lima Beans and Ham Bits recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal effort. Its versatility makes it a perfect addition to any meal, and its comforting flavors will leave you wanting more. Give it a try and let us know what you think!