The winter season marks the beginning of inclement winter storms that inevitably chill our bones and cause our electric bills to escalate to tremendous proportions! This year, try warming yourself up with tasty and nutritious Lima Bean Soup.

Both satisfying and good for you, beans are high in protein and fiber while being low in fat. Additional benefits include lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that eating beans can help fight against cancer and help diabetics in lowering their blood sugar.

While the following recipe is fairly simple, the savory flavor of this soup is unprecedented in tantalizing those eager taste-buds. Enjoy!

1 Large Meaty Ham Bone

1 Large Package Lima Bean

1 Onion

2 to 3 Cloves Fresh Garlic

2 Bay Leaves

2-3 Stalks Celery (optional)

Salt and Pepper to Taste

• Simmer ham bone in large pot of water for approximately 30-45 minutes

• Remove ham from bone and discard fat, place aside

• Chop the onion

• Mince the garlic

• Add ham, lima beans, garlic and onion to pot of water

• Add bay leaves, salt and pepper to taste

• Adding celery is optional

• Cook on medium heat for 1 1/2 hours, till lima beans are tender

• Serve piping hot with freshly baked bread or buttered biscuits