Here’s a list of ingredients for **ham and lima bean soup** with SEO-friendly formatting and relevant keywords to help with search engine optimization:
- **Ham hock or smoked ham** (adds rich, smoky flavor to the soup)
- **Dried lima beans** (or fresh lima beans for a hearty, protein-packed base)
- **Chicken broth or vegetable broth** (for a flavorful soup base)
- **Onion** (diced, for aromatic depth)
- **Garlic** (minced, for a savory kick)
- **Carrots** (chopped, for sweetness and texture)
- **Celery** (chopped, for a fresh, earthy flavor)
- **Bay leaves** (adds a subtle herbal note)
- **Thyme** (dried or fresh, for a warm, earthy flavor)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground, for seasoning)
- **Salt** (to taste, enhances overall flavor)
- **Olive oil or butter** (for sautéing vegetables)
- **Water** (as needed, to adjust soup consistency)
- **Optional: Barley or quinoa** (for added grains and texture)
- **Optional: Parsley** (fresh, for garnish and a pop of color)
This **ham and lima bean soup recipe** is perfect for a comforting, high-protein meal. It’s packed with **fiber-rich lima beans**, **smoky ham**, and **nutritious vegetables**, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion. Use **dried beans** for a traditional touch or **canned lima beans** for a quicker version. Enjoy this **hearty soup** as a **winter comfort food** or a **meal prep-friendly dish**!
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Steps
# How to Make Ham and Lima Bean Soup with Beans and Grains: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ham and lima bean soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines smoky ham, tender lima beans, and wholesome grains. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, cold weather, or anyone looking for a nutritious, protein-packed meal. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious ham and lima bean soup that will satisfy your cravings.
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## **Ingredients**
- 1 cup dried lima beans (soaked overnight)
- 1 cup mixed grains (barley, quinoa, or farro work well)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Lima Beans**
1. Soak 1 cup of dried lima beans in water overnight to soften them. Drain and rinse before cooking.
2. Alternatively, you can use canned lima beans for a quicker option.
### **Step 2: Cook the Grains**
1. Rinse 1 cup of mixed grains under cold water.
2. In a medium pot, cook the grains according to package instructions. Set aside once cooked.
### **Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
### **Step 4: Add Ham and Seasonings**
1. Add 2 cups of diced cooked ham to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a bay leaf.
### **Step 5: Simmer the Soup**
1. Pour in 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.
2. Add the soaked lima beans and bring the soup to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes until the lima beans are tender.
### **Step 6: Incorporate the Grains**
1. Stir in the cooked grains during the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm them through.
2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
### **Step 7: Garnish and Serve**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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## **Tips for Success**
- **Keyword Tip**: Use "ham and lima bean soup," "hearty bean soup," and "comfort food recipes" for SEO optimization.
- For a richer flavor, use a ham bone or ham hock during simmering.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
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This ham and lima bean soup with beans and grains is a nutritious, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the smoky, savory flavors and the satisfying texture of this wholesome soup!