Comforting Lima Beans

Veronica's Healthy Living
If you don't normally eat these beans, or have never tried them, I don't know what you are waiting for! Lima beans are packed with protein and a wide array vitamins and minerals. They are particularly a good source of copper, manganese, folate, iron and cholesterol-lowering fiber.
Prep Time 2 days
Cook Time 7 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb dried lima or butter beans
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp maple syrup
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • dash cayenne
  • 4 slices smoked bacon (optional)

Instructions
 

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • When beans are tender, add salt, pepper, and dash cayenne for taste.  Enjoy with crusty cornbread.