Slow-Cooked Lima Beans with Ham and Cajun Seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the celery, onion, and bell peppers. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to the lima beans. The bell peppers, in particular, provide a touch of sweetness and color to the dish, while the celery and onion contribute depth to the broth. Heat a pan over medium heat, add a little oil, and sauté the chopped vegetables. Stir frequently, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and become fragrant. You’ll know they’re ready when the onion becomes translucent and the peppers begin to soften.
2. Prepare the Lima Beans: While the vegetables are sautéing, rinse the lima beans thoroughly under cold water. Check for any debris or damaged beans, removing them as needed. Place the rinsed beans into your slow cooker, as they will be cooking slowly to absorb all the flavors of the broth and seasoning.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the vegetables have been sautéed to your liking, add them to the slow cooker with the lima beans. Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth, which will form the base of your flavorful stew-like dish. The chicken broth will create a rich, savory base that blends beautifully with the smoky flavor of the ham and the spices from the Cajun seasoning.
4. Add Seasoning: Season the mixture to taste with garlic powder and Tony’s Chachere Cajun Seasoning. The amount of seasoning depends on your personal preference, but be sure to start with a light hand and adjust later. Tony’s Chachere Cajun Seasoning adds a perfect balance of heat and spice, giving the beans a slight kick without overwhelming the dish. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Add the Ham: For added depth of flavor, add your choice of ham to the slow cooker. You can use a ham bone, which will slowly release rich flavor into the beans, or smoked ham hocks, which will provide a more intense smokiness. Place the ham in the slow cooker, ensuring it’s submerged in the broth. This will infuse the entire dish with its savory, smoky essence as it cooks.
6. Cook the Beans: Cover the slow cooker and cook the beans on low for 6-8 hours, or until the lima beans are tender and fully cooked through. The cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the beans, but the beans should be soft and easily mashed with a spoon when they are done. As they cook, the broth will thicken, becoming a delicious, flavorful sauce that clings to the beans.
7. Check for Seasoning: Once the lima beans are fully cooked, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like it spicier, you can add a little more Cajun seasoning, or a pinch of salt if it needs more depth. Stir well to incorporate any additional seasoning.
8. Serve: Once the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together, serve the lima beans hot. They make a perfect side dish or a hearty main course when paired with some hot water cornbread. The cornbread’s texture and mild flavor complement the rich, smoky beans, making for a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
   

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