Comforting Lima Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 pounds dried lima or butter beans
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• Dash cayenne
• 4 slices smoked bacon (optional)

Instructions:

1. SEVERAL DAYS IN ADVANCE:  Sort beans and discard damaged, rotten or discolored ones, as well as any stones or debris.  Rinse thoroughly; cover with cold water and soak overnight.  Drain ins strainer.  Rinse several times a day for 2 or 3 days, until sprouted.
2. Use crock pot of pot to cook beans, barely cover in water or with vegetable broth.  Add onions, maple syrup and bacon.  Crockpot – cook on low – 6-8 hours, Pot – bring to boil, reduce to simmer and cook until beans are tender, about 1 1/2 – 2 hours.
3. When beans are tender, add salt, pepper, and dash cayenne for taste.  Enjoy with crusty cornbread.