Ham and Lima Bean Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Nutrition

Growing up in West Virginia, I was introduced to lima beans by my mother, who would often cook them as a staple dish. I have always been fond of the large, heartier limas with their buttery taste. Over time, I discovered that you can buy both dry baby limas and large limas, each with its own unique characteristics.

One of the advantages of using frozen lima beans is that they are more immature in their stage of development, which means they are fresher and greener. On the other hand, dried lima beans are considered 'mature' and have a beige, almost yellow hue. In this recipe, I'm adding spinach to boost the nutritional value even further.

Lima beans are often misunderstood as being high in sugar or causing energy crashes after consumption. However, the energy you get from eating these beans is due to their ability to stabilize blood sugar levels while providing sustained energy for hours. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals with diabetes, insulin resistance, and hypoglycemia.

In addition to their numerous health benefits, lima beans are also a natural cholesterol-lowering food, rich in fiber and protein. According to WHFoods, buttery lima beans are considered one of the world's healthiest foods.

While some people may be familiar with the term 'butter beans,' I grew up calling them lima beans. The name difference is mainly due to regional variations, as both terms refer to the same type of bean. Southerners often use the term 'butter beans' to describe these delicious and nutritious legumes.

This recipe combines the comfort food of buttery lima beans with the added nutritional benefits of spinach, all seasoned with savory ham. The creamy sauce is sure to delight your taste buds, making this a dish that's hard to resist. So grab a big spoon and indulge in this hearty, comforting bowl of goodness!

Ham and lima bean soup