Lima Bean Chili
Lima Bean Chili is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavor of lima beans with a rich blend of spices and vegetables. Originating from the Latin American culinary tradition, this dish has become a staple in many households due to its simplicity and delicious taste. Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are known for their mild flavor and creamy texture, making them an ideal base for a chili.
Ingredients
- Lima beans - 2 cups, dried and soaked overnight
- Onion - 1 large, chopped
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Bell pepper - 1, diced (any color)
- Jalapeno - 1, seeded and minced
- Tomatoes - 2 cups, diced
- Corn - 1 cup, kernels
- Chili powder - 2 tablespoons
- Cumin - 1 tablespoon
- Paprika - 1 tablespoon
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable broth - 4 cups
- Cilantro - 1/2 cup, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime - 1, cut into wedges (for serving)
Preparation
Before you begin, ensure your lima beans are properly soaked. Take the dried beans and soak them in a large bowl of water overnight. This will make them tender and reduce cooking time considerably. Once done, drain the beans and set them aside.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Dice the bell pepper and jalapeno. Prepare your tomatoes by dicing them into small pieces and keep all ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Step 2: Saute the Base
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it turns translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Following this, add the garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the pre-soaked lima beans to the pot along with the diced tomatoes and corn kernels. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Add Spices
Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until the spices are well distributed.
Step 5: Simmer
Pour the vegetable broth over the seasoned mixture. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the chili to simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lima beans are fully cooked and tender. For precise timing, use a cooking timer to track the simmering process.
Serving Suggestions
Once the lima beans are tender and the flavors have blended together beautifully, it's time to serve. Scoop the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zest.
Enjoying Your Meal
Lima Bean Chili can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of warm crusty bread, or a dollop of sour cream on top. The hearty beans and the spicy undertones bring warmth to any cold evening, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners.