New England Succotash. Mrs. S. A. Powers. Recipe

New England Succotash: A Hearty Delight from Mrs. S.A. Powers

Introduction:

New England Succotash is a delicious and classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This traditional recipe combines green Lima beans, fresh corn, and savory pickled pork, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish. The succotash is seasoned with a touch of sugar, butter, and pepper, adding a hint of sweetness and richness to the dish. The combination of tender beans, sweet corn, and the savory smokiness of pickled pork makes this dish a comforting and satisfying meal. Join us as we dive into the history of New England Succotash, explore some fun facts, and discover similar recipe dishes.

History of New England Succotash:

The origins of Succotash can be traced back to Native American cuisine, specifically the Narragansett tribe of Rhode Island. The word "succotash" is derived from the Narragansett word "msíckquatash," which translates to "boiled corn kernels." Traditionally, Succotash was made using corn, beans, and sometimes other ingredients like meat, fish, or squash, depending on what was available. The dish was often prepared during the harvest season when fresh produce was abundant.

Over time, Succotash became a staple in New England cuisine and found its way onto the tables of early settlers. With the introduction of pickled pork in the region, it was incorporated into the recipe, adding a unique flavor to the dish. Now, New England Succotash has become a cherished dish enjoyed by many, particularly during the summer and fall seasons when fresh corn and beans are readily available.

Fun Facts:

1. Succotash was considered a common dish in early America and was often associated with frugality. It was commonly referred to as "Sufferin' Succotash" due to its humble and economical nature.

2. In some variations of the recipe, lima beans are replaced with other beans such as kidney beans, butter beans, or even chickpeas. This allows for some variation and personalization in the dish.

3. New England Succotash is often served as a side dish, accompanying many traditional New England meals like clam bakes, boiled lobsters, or roasted meats.

4. Succotash is not just a dish in New England; it has variations in other regions of the United States as well. In the Southern United States, particularly in the Carolinas, a version known as "Hoppin' John" is popular. Hoppin' John typically includes black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon.

Recipe: New England Succotash

Ingredients:
- 2 quarts shelled Lima beans (green)
- 1 dozen ears of corn (cut off cob)
- 1 pound pickled pork
- Water, for boiling
- 2 tablespoonfuls sugar
- Butter, the size of a walnut
- Pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cover the pickled pork with water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.

2. Remove the pickled pork from the pot and set it aside, reserving the cooking liquid. Allow the pork to cool slightly before cutting it into small pieces or cubes.

3. In the same pot, add the shelled Lima beans to the reserved cooking liquid. Cook the beans until they are tender and begin to burst, typically around 20-25 minutes.

4. Once the beans are cooked, add the cut-off corn kernels to the pot. Stir well to combine.

5. Next, add the sugar, butter, and pepper to the pot. Stir gently to distribute the seasoning evenly.

6. Continuously stir the mixture to prevent scorching. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the corn is tender and cooked through.

7. Add the cooked pickled pork to the succotash and stir gently to incorporate it into the dish.

8. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more sugar, butter, or pepper according to your preference.

9. Remove the pot from the heat and allow the succotash to cool slightly before serving. The flavors will meld together as the dish rests.

10. Serve the New England Succotash warm as a side dish or as a main course accompanied by crusty bread or cornbread.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Hoppin' John: A popular Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon. It is often served on New Year's Day as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

2. Three Sisters Stew: A Native American dish that combines corn, beans, and squash. This trio of ingredients is often referred to as the "Three Sisters" and represents a traditional planting method used by indigenous cultures.

3. Minestrone Soup: A hearty Italian soup that features a combination of beans, vegetables, pasta, and sometimes meat. It is known for its robust flavors and versatility.

Conclusion:

New England Succotash is a timeless dish that captures the essence of New England cuisine. With its rich flavors and comforting combination of beans, corn, and pickled pork, it remains a beloved dish cherished by many. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, New England Succotash is sure to please with its hearty and wholesome flavors. So gather your ingredients, embrace the history, and savor the taste of this classic New England dish.

Vote