Dad’s lima bean soup is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. This hearty dish is perfect for cold winter nights and works as a great meal for any time of the year. Lima beans are high in protein and fiber, so this soup can help keep you full longer than other soups.
The ham bone adds lots of flavor to the dish and also provides some important nutrients like iron and zinc! You’ll love how easy it is to make Dad’s lima bean soup with a ham bone.
Lima beans are a type of bean that is grown in the US and typically eaten as a side dish. Lima beans can also be used to make soup.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) package dried lima beans
- 1 ham bone with some meat
- 8 cups water, or more as needed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 stalks celery, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- ½ pound diced cooked ham
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Directions
Instructions Checklist
- Step 1Place beans in a large pot; cover with 2 inches water. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 to 2 hours. Drain and rinse. Transfer beans to another container.
- Step 2Combine ham bone and 8 cups water in a large saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat until remaining meat falls off the bone, about 2 hours. Remove and discard bone. Use a slotted spoon to transfer meat to a bowl.
- Step 3Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add celery and onion; cook and stir until onion is translucent, 7 to 10 minutes. Add cooked ham bone meat, lima beans, and diced ham. Reduce heat and simmer, adding additional water as needed, until soup is thickened to desired consistency, about 90 minutes.
- Step 4Stir carrots, salt, pepper, and parsley into the soup. Let simmer until carrots are soft, about 30 minutes more.
