In the realm of Southern cuisine, Creole lima beans stand as a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage, offering a delectable symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Deeply rooted in Louisiana's culinary traditions, these plump and tender beans take center stage in a diverse array of recipes, each boasting unique characteristics that cater to a wide range of palates. From the classic slow-cooked Creole lima beans stewed in a flavorful broth, imbued with the essence of the Holy Trinity (onions, celery, and bell peppers), garlic, and a medley of aromatic spices, to the vibrant Lima Bean Salad, where the freshness of crisp vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing blend harmoniously with the creamy texture of the beans.
For those seeking a hearty and comforting meal, the Creole Lima Bean Soup emerges as a culinary masterpiece, marrying the velvety texture of pureed lima beans with a savory broth enriched with smoked sausage, vegetables, and a touch of Creole seasoning. Alternatively, the Lima Bean Casserole beckons with its golden-brown crust, the tender beans nestled in a creamy sauce, topped with a crispy breadcrumb and cheese gratin. And for a delightful twist on a classic, the Lima Bean Burgers emerge as a healthier and equally satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers, showcasing the versatility of these humble beans.
CREOLE CHICKEN STEW WITH BABY LIMA BEANS
In less than an hour, you can have this comforting chicken stew, made with baby lima beans, on your table. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut down on the cooking time, and they stay nice and tender while the stew simmers. Season to your family's tastes with Creole seasoning, adding as much or as little as you like. Served with cooked white rice, it was made even more "down home" with a hot, crunchy biscuit!
Provided by Bibi
Time 1h
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Brown bacon in a 4-quart chef's pan or saute pan over medium heat, 4 to 6 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper and add to the bacon drippings in the pan. Brown over medium heat, about 4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the same pan and cook in the drippings over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tender, 4 to 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cut browned chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and chop the browned bacon. Add to the vegetables once tender. Stir in frozen baby lima beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with Creole seasoning and adjust salt and pepper, if necessary.
- Press lima beans down into the cooking broth so they cook evenly. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook uncovered, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes, until chicken is cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
Nutrition Facts : Calories 442.4 calories, Carbohydrate 36.1 g, Cholesterol 91.5 mg, Fat 20.1 g, Fiber 7 g, Protein 29.7 g, SaturatedFat 5.8 g, Sodium 845.7 mg, Sugar 1.7 g
CREOLE LIMA BEANS
Categories Bean Tomato Side Stew Vegetarian
Yield Makes 8 one cup servings for a side dish.
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Heat oil in a sauce pan. Add the celery, onions, and green pepper and saute until tender. Add the tomatoes,thyme, hot cherry peppers, and lima beans. Simmer for 15 minutes
Tips:
- Selecting the Right Beans: Choose dried lima beans that are plump and uniform in size. Avoid any beans that are shriveled or discolored.
- Soaking the Beans: Soaking the beans overnight or for at least 8 hours helps to reduce cooking time and improves their texture. Remember to drain and rinse the beans thoroughly before cooking.
- Using a Pressure Cooker: If you're short on time, using a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time for the lima beans. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific model.
- Seasoning: Creole cuisine is known for its bold flavors, so don't be afraid to use a variety of seasonings in your lima bean dish. Common spices include garlic, onion, bell pepper, celery, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
- Cooking Greens: If you're adding cooking greens to your lima bean dish, make sure to wash and chop them thoroughly. Collard greens, kale, and turnip greens are popular choices.
- Serving Suggestions: Creole lima beans can be served as a main course or side dish. Accompany them with rice, cornbread, or your favorite Creole dishes like gumbo or jambalaya.
Conclusion:
Creole lima beans are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. With their creamy texture and bold flavors, these beans are a staple in Creole cuisine. Whether you prefer a simple preparation or a more elaborate dish with added vegetables, spices, or meats, Creole lima beans are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So next time you're looking for a comforting and flavorful meal, give this classic Creole recipe a try!
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