If you're on the hunt for a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table, look no further than Cracker Barrel Baby Limas! This classic American recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. With tender lima beans simmered to perfection, infused with the rich flavors of butter and onion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to elevate your mealtime? Let’s dive into the secrets of cooking these scrumptious beans!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound baby lima beans
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the baby lima beans thoroughly, removing any small stones or damaged beans.
- Place the cleaned lima beans in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
- Add 4 cups of cold water to the pot, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.
- Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces and add to the beans.
- Cut the butter into small cubes and add to the bean mixture.
- Season the beans with salt and pepper, starting with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Bring the bean mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Simmer the beans gently for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Check bean tenderness by testing with a fork; beans should be soft but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, spooning beans and their cooking liquid into a serving dish.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always sort and rinse your baby lima beans well to remove any small stones or damaged beans. This ensures a clean and tasty final dish.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven distributes heat evenly, preventing the beans from sticking and burning during cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper, but don't hesitate to adjust to your taste. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add a delightful twist!
- Check for Tenderness: Test the beans with a fork after 40 minutes of simmering. They should be soft but not mushy; if they need more time, continue cooking and check every few minutes.
- Let Them Rest: Allowing the beans to sit for 5 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serve with Style: For an elegant presentation, spoon the beans along with their cooking liquid into a decorative serving dish. They make a beautiful addition to any table setting!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 172kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
