Welcome to my kitchen, where today I am excited to share with you a unique and flavorful recipe for Lima Bean Loaf. This hearty and satisfying dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your weekly menu.
With a combination of wholesome ingredients like dry lima beans, chopped peanuts, and fresh vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time.
As I gather the ingredients for this Lima Bean Loaf, I can’t help but appreciate the variety of flavors and textures each component brings to the table. The dry lima beans provide a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber, while the chopped peanuts add a satisfying crunch.
The fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion not only contribute to the dish’s vibrant colors but also boost its nutritional value. Combined with the creamy texture of milk and the savory notes of butter and cheese, this recipe is a harmonious blend of wholesome goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Flour: Flour is used as a binding agent in the lima bean loaf. It helps hold the ingredients together and gives the loaf structure, ensuring that it holds its shape when baked.
- Beaten Egg: Beaten egg acts as another binding agent in the loaf, helping to hold the ingredients together and providing moisture. It also helps the loaf set properly during baking.
- American Cheese Slices: American cheese slices add richness and flavor to the loaf. They melt into the mixture, contributing to the creamy texture and providing a savory, cheesy taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Skim Milk: Skim milk adds moisture to the mixture, helping to keep the loaf moist and tender. It also helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the creamy consistency of the loaf.
- Small Onion, Chopped: Chopped onion adds flavor and aroma to the loaf. It provides a savory and slightly sweet taste that complements the other ingredients and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Soft Whole Wheat Crumbs: Soft whole wheat crumbs act as a filler in the loaf, adding texture and helping to absorb excess moisture. They also contribute to the overall heartiness of the dish.
- Chopped Peanuts: Chopped peanuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the loaf. They provide contrast to the softness of the other ingredients and add a satisfying bite to each bite.
- Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the loaf. It helps to enhance the overall taste of the dish and contributes to its creamy texture.
- Black Pepper: Black pepper adds warmth and spice to the loaf, enhancing its flavor profile. It provides a subtle kick that balances out the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps to bring out their natural tastes. It is essential for seasoning the loaf and ensuring that it is properly seasoned.
- Chopped Carrots and Thinly Sliced Celery: Chopped carrots and thinly sliced celery add texture and flavor to the loaf. They provide a fresh and crunchy contrast to the other ingredients and contribute to the overall heartiness of the dish.
- Dry Lima Beans: Dry lima beans are the main ingredient of the loaf, providing protein, fiber, and a hearty texture. They add substance to the dish and serve as the base for the loaf, giving it its characteristic taste and texture.
Step by Step Directions:
Step 1: Preparation of Lima Beans
- Begin by soaking the dry lima beans in cold water overnight. This process helps to soften the beans and reduce their cooking time.
Step 2: Cooking the Lima Beans
- The next day, drain and rinse the soaked lima beans. Then, transfer them to a pot and cover them with fresh water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans until they are tender, which typically takes about 1 1/2 hours.
- Once cooked, drain the beans and mash them using a fork or potato masher. Set aside.
Step 3: Sautéing Onion and Celery
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the melted butter and sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Then, add the thinly sliced celery to the saucepan. Cover and continue to cook until the celery is tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Creating the Roux
- Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps to create a roux, which will thicken the mixture.
Step 5: Making the Sauce
- Gradually pour in the skim milk while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens to a sauce-like consistency. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 6: Combining Ingredients
- Add the beaten egg to the saucepan and mix well to incorporate it into the sauce. Then, fold in the mashed lima beans, soft whole wheat crumbs, chopped peanuts, chopped carrots, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 7: Preparing the Loaf
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8 x 4 inch loaf pan. Spoon the lima bean mixture into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 8: Baking the Loaf
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top of the loaf is golden brown and set.
Step 9: Melting Cheese
- Once the loaf is baked, remove it from the oven and arrange slices of American cheese on top.
- Return the loaf to the oven and bake for a few more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Serving
- Remove the lima bean loaf from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This flavorful and nutritious dish is ready to be enjoyed!
Recipe Notes:
Each ingredient in this Lima Bean Loaf plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The flour helps bind the ingredients together, while the beaten egg adds moisture and richness to the dish. The chopped peanuts provide a delightful crunch, contrasting with the tender texture of the cooked lima beans.
The combination of carrots and celery not only adds color to the dish but also brings a subtle sweetness and freshness to each bite. And let’s not forget about the creamy and gooey American cheese slices that elevate the overall indulgence of this comforting meal.
Recipe Variations:
– For a vegan version of Lima Bean Loaf, substitute the beaten egg with a flaxseed egg and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
– Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat and depth of flavor.
– Experiment with different types of nuts like almonds or cashews for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
– Consider incorporating herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fragrant and aromatic touch.
– For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional flour.
– Mix in cooked quinoa or brown rice to increase the protein content and add a chewy texture to the loaf.
Lima Bean Loaf Recipe
Equipment
- pot
- Fork
- saucepan
- Spoon
- 8 x 4 inch loaf pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup Soft wholewheat crumbs
- 1 cup Skim milk
- 1 Beaten egg
- 1 onion chopped
- American cheese slices
- 1/2 cup Chopped peanuts
- 1/3 cup all purpose Flour
- 1 cup Thinly sliced celery
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1 1/2 cup Chopped carrots
- 1/4 tsp ground Black pepper
- 1 cup Dry Lima Beans
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the dry lima beans in cold water overnight. This process helps to soften the beans and reduce their cooking time.
- The next day, drain and rinse the soaked lima beans. Then, transfer them to a pot and cover them with fresh water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans until they are tender, which typically takes about 1 1/2 hours.
- Once cooked, drain the beans and mash them using a fork or potato masher. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the melted butter and sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Then, add the thinly sliced celery to the saucepan. Cover and continue to cook until the celery is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps to create a roux, which will thicken the mixture.
- Gradually pour in the skim milk while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens to a sauce-like consistency. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the beaten egg to the saucepan and mix well to incorporate it into the sauce. Then, fold in the mashed lima beans, soft whole wheat crumbs, chopped peanuts, chopped carrots, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8 x 4 inch loaf pan. Spoon the lima bean mixture into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top of the loaf is golden brown and set.
- Once the loaf is baked, remove it from the oven and arrange slices of American cheese on top.
- Return the loaf to the oven and bake for a few more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the lima bean loaf from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This flavorful and nutritious dish is ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. Can I use canned lima beans instead of dry lima beans?
Yes, you can use canned lima beans as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the recipe to remove any excess salt or liquid.
Q2. How long does Lima Bean Loaf stay fresh in the refrigerator?
Lima Bean Loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q3. Are there any substitutions for peanuts in this recipe?
If you have a nut allergy or prefer to avoid peanuts, you can substitute them with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped almonds for a similar crunch and nutty flavor profile.
Q4. Can I freeze Lima Bean Loaf for later use?
Yes, you can freeze Lima Bean Loaf either as a whole loaf or individual slices. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q5. What side dishes pair well with Lima Bean Loaf?
Lima Bean Loaf pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes. The savory and hearty flavors of the loaf complement lighter sides for a well-rounded meal.
Q6. How can I enhance the cheese topping of Lima Bean Loaf?
For a golden and crispy cheese topping, broil the loaf in the oven for a few minutes after baking until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Lima Bean Loaf is a versatile and delicious recipe that celebrates the bounty of nutritious ingredients in a comforting and satisfying dish. From the creamy texture of the cooked lima beans to the crunchy bite of chopped peanuts, every element of this recipe is thoughtfully combined to create a wholesome and flavorful meal.
Whether you are looking for a meatless option to add to your weekly menu or simply craving a dose of homemade comfort food, Lima Bean Loaf is sure to exceed your expectations.
Give this recipe a try and embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body from the inside out. Enjoy!
