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Slow Cooker Amish Lima Beans

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Slow Cooker Amish Lima Beans

 

Description

Slow Cooker Amish Lima Beans are a classic comfort food recipe known for their creamy texture and deep homemade flavor. Slow cooking allows the beans to become soft and buttery while absorbing all the savory goodness from onions, broth, and smoky seasonings. This budget-friendly dish is warm, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or cozy cold-weather meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried lima beans
  • 6 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced ham (optional for smoky flavor)
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Beans

Rinse and sort the lima beans. Soak overnight in water or use the quick-soak method by boiling for 2 minutes and resting for 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Slow Cooker

Drain soaked beans and place them into the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Add onion, garlic, bacon, butter, seasonings, and ham hock or diced ham if using.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour in water or broth until beans are fully covered.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

  • LOW for 7–8 hours
    or
  • HIGH for 4–5 hours

until beans are tender and creamy.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm with cornbread, rice, biscuits, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Soaking helps beans cook more evenly and reduces cooking time.
  • Chicken broth adds richer flavor than water.
  • Ham hock gives traditional smoky Amish-style flavor.
  • Stir gently near the end to avoid breaking beans apart.

Tips

  • Add a bay leaf during cooking for extra depth of flavor.
  • For thicker beans, mash a small portion before serving.
  • Smoked turkey can replace ham for a lighter option.
  • Add carrots or celery for more vegetables.
  • Avoid adding too much salt early, as beans can toughen slightly.

Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 people

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg

Benefits

High in Fiber

Lima beans support digestion and help keep you full longer.

Good Plant Protein

A nutritious source of protein, especially for meatless meals.

Budget-Friendly Meal

Uses inexpensive pantry ingredients to feed a family.

Rich in Nutrients

Contains iron, magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins.

Comforting & Filling

Perfect for cozy meals and satisfying hunger.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water.

Q&A

Can I use canned lima beans?

Yes, but reduce cooking time significantly since they are already cooked.

Do I have to soak the beans?

Soaking is recommended for better texture and even cooking, but not absolutely required.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip bacon and ham, and use vegetable broth.

Why are my beans still hard?

Older dried beans can take longer to cook. Make sure they soak properly and cook long enough.

What can I serve with lima beans?

Cornbread, rice, biscuits, fried potatoes, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I add spices?

Yes, cayenne pepper, thyme, or Cajun seasoning add extra flavor.

Are lima beans healthy?

Yes, they are rich in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

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