Butter Beans & Smoked Turkey
Ingredients:
* 1 lb dried butter beans (lima beans)
* 1½–2 lbs smoked turkey wings or smoked turkey leg
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
* 2 cups water
* 1 tsp smoked paprika
* ½ tsp black pepper
* ½ tsp garlic powder
* ½ tsp onion powder
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 tsp salt, or to taste
* 2 tbsp butter
* 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
* ½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
Method:
1. Rinse the dried butter beans thoroughly and remove any damaged beans.
2. Soak the beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
3. Place the smoked turkey in a large pot with the broth and water. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add the butter beans, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1½–2½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and creamy.
6. Remove the smoked turkey and allow it to cool slightly. Pull the meat from the bones and discard the skin and bones.
7. Return the shredded turkey meat to the pot and stir in the butter.
8. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
9. Simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes to allow the broth to thicken into a rich, savory gravy.
10. Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or a side of collard greens. The longer the beans simmer, the richer and creamier they become!
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