Slow Cooker Barbecued Lima Beans

Soak the dried lima beans in cold water overnight to make sure they cook evenly and become tender more quickly.

Cook the bacon until crisp before adding to the beans if you prefer a cooked texture.

Adjust the amount of Tabasco sauce to taste.

Check the beans periodically during cooking, especially towards the end, to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Let the beans stand for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.

Try different types of vinegar or mustard to add a different flavor to the sauce.

Can I use canned lima beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lima beans as a shortcut. Drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the crock pot. You may need to adjust the cooking time since canned beans are already cooked, so they primarily just need to be heated through and allowed to absorb the flavors.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the bacon?

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and try adding a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor the bacon would have contributed. You can also try a vegan bacon substitute.

Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a regular oven. After combining all the ingredients in an oven-safe dish, bake covered at 325 degrees F for about 2-3 hours or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. Check periodically to stir and add more liquid if needed.

What can I use as a substitute for dark corn syrup?

A good substitute for dark corn syrup is molasses mixed with light corn syrup (half and half). You can also use pure maple syrup or honey for a different flavor, though the taste will vary from the original recipe.

How can I thicken the sauce if it's too runny after cooking?

If the sauce is too runny, you can thicken it by removing the lid of the crock pot and cooking on high for an additional 30-60 minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the beans, then cook for another 15-20 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

Can I freeze leftover barbecued lima beans?

Yes, leftover barbecued lima beans freeze well. Cool them completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What's a good brown sugar substitute for this recipe?

Use 1 cup granulated white sugar with 1 1/2 teaspoons molasses as a substitute for brown sugar. Alternatively, coconut sugar or a sugar-free brown sugar substitute like a blend of erythritol and stevia with molasses flavor can work for those looking to reduce sugar intake.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Try adding chopped bell peppers, garlic, or smoked sausage. Adjust the seasoning as needed to accommodate any extra ingredients.

How should I serve barbecued lima beans?

Barbecued lima beans are versatile and can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, poultry, or fish. They also make a hearty addition to a potluck spread or as part of a vegetarian meal when prepared without bacon.