Hearty Lima Bean Soup with Ham

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Hearty Lima Bean Soup with Ham.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious ham and lima bean soup, grab a large saucepan and toss in the ham bone along with 8 cups of water.

2. Step 2

   Let it simmer gently over medium-low heat for about 2 hours, or until the meat is so tender it practically falls off the bone.

3. Step 3

   Once it’s ready, carefully remove the bone and set aside the succulent meat in a bowl.

4. Step 4

   While your ham is simmering away, take a separate large pot and add the dried lima beans.

5. Step 5

   Cover them with cold water and bring it to a boil.

6. Step 6

   Once boiling, take the pot off the heat, cover it, and let the beans soak for an hour.

7. Step 7

   After the hour is up, drain and rinse the beans to prepare them for the next step.

8. Step 8

   Now, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

9. Step 9

   Add in the diced celery and onion, cooking them until the onion turns a lovely translucent color, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

10. Step 10

    Next, stir in the reserved ham meat, the rinsed lima beans, and any diced cooked ham you have on hand.

11. Step 11

    Lower the heat and let this hearty mixture simmer, adding more water as needed, until it thickens to your liking—this should take around 90 minutes.

12. Step 12

    To finish off your soup, stir in the sliced carrots, a pinch of salt, some pepper, and a sprinkle of dried parsley.

13. Step 13

    Allow the soup to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and bursting with flavor.

14. Step 14

    Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends!.