BOSTON BAKED LIMA BEANS

This is a depression era recipe that has been handed down through generations.

1 lb lean ground beef
1 can (28-oz) diced tomatoes, do not drain
1 can (16-oz) butter beans
1 can (16-oz) lima beans
3 tbsp brown sugar
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
5 or 6 slices bacon*

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

In a large skillet brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain well in a colander and add the tomatoes with juice. Cook mixture 5 minutes to heat through.

Combine the beans, sugar, and pepper in a bowl then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Place the beef/tomato mixture over the beans. Top with the bacon slices.

Bake at 350 degrees approximately 45 minutes until beans are bubbly and bacon is crisp. Skim any fat from the top before serving.

Yield: 6 servings

*I have typed this recipe as it was given to me a few years ago. Personally, however, I fry my bacon about halfway browned then transfer to paper towels to drain. This keeps some of the excess fat out of the dish.