Best Lima Bean Soup - Especially Wintertime!

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   1. Rinse lima beans and place in water along with quartered onions, carrots, and celery in pot or dutch oven.

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   2. Bring mix to a boil over medium heat.

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   3. When mix begins to boil, reduce heat and simmer for an hour.

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   4. Add the two grated potatoes and simmer for an additional half hour.

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   5. Add the balance of the potatoes along with the golden brown bacon (nix the bacon drippings unless you don't mind the fat and extra calories).

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   6. (Optional) Add one cup of grated cauliflower or one cup of flour for thicker broth, if desired.

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   7. Let simmer for an additional half hour, then add four cups of diced tomatoes (canned will do) for flavor and a bit of color, two bay leaves, 3/4 T thyme, 3/4 T paprika, 2 T lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste, and favorite flavorful hot sauce (optional).

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   8. Either continue to simmer for three to four additional hours until done, stirring often and/or adding additional water to avoid burning the ever-thickening mix, or remove contents from heat and transfer to 7-qt. or 8-qt. crock-pot to finish soup at low setting for five to six hours till finished.

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   Add additional warm water prior to serving if somewhat thinner consistency desired. Okay to refrigerate broth overnight and then transfer to crock-pot next morning, with a little extra water, if needed, to finish soup at low setting for six to seven hours, but wait until then to add lemon juice. Some think this soup is a bit bland, but avoid over-seasoning while cooking and just let each person season to taste. Goes great with corn bread or a multi-grain muffin or roll. An ale really compliments the overall taste.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.