5 Delicious Butter Bean Recipes You'll Love

Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are a staple in many cuisines around the world due to their rich, creamy texture and delicate flavor. They are not only versatile in dishes but also pack a nutritional punch, offering a good source of fiber, protein, and various minerals. Here are five delicious butter bean recipes that you might find yourself adding to your regular meal rotation.

Recipe 1: Butter Bean and Tomato Stew

This comforting stew combines the buttery softness of butter beans with the sweet tanginess of tomatoes.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cans of butter beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can of whole peeled tomatoes
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in the tomatoes, breaking them down with a spoon, and cook until thickened.
  4. Add the butter beans, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Serve warm with a slice of crusty bread.

✅ Note: This dish can be varied by adding spinach or kale for some greens.

Recipe 2: Butter Bean Hummus

A twist on traditional hummus, this version uses butter beans for a smoother, creamier dip.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can of butter beans, drained
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 garlic clove, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • Paprika and parsley for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a food processor, blend butter beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt until smooth.
  2. With the processor running, drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is creamy.
  3. Adjust seasoning, garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and parsley.
  4. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Recipe 3: Butter Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs

A light and refreshing salad that highlights the subtle flavor of butter beans with fresh herbs.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cans of butter beans, drained
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, zest, and juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
• Instructions:
  1. Combine butter beans, parsley, dill, and onion in a bowl.
  2. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
  3. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let flavors meld before serving.

🔬 Note: The freshness of the herbs is crucial for the best flavor profile in this salad.

Recipe 4: Butter Bean Curry

Spice up your dinner with this creamy, flavorsome curry featuring butter beans.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cans of butter beans
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Instructions:
  1. Heat oil, add mustard seeds and let them pop.
  2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion softens.
  3. Stir in curry powder and tomatoes, cooking until tomatoes break down.
  4. Pour in coconut milk and butter beans. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  5. Serve over rice or with naan bread.

Recipe 5: Grilled Butter Bean Burgers

Perfect for barbecues or a meatless Monday, these burgers are a delightful surprise with their robust flavor and texture.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of cooked butter beans
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • Burger buns, lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments for serving
• Instructions:
  1. Mash beans in a bowl. Add oats, carrot, onion, soy sauce, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Shape into patties and chill for 30 minutes to firm up.
  3. Grill over medium heat until well browned on both sides.
  4. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

In wrapping up, these five recipes showcase the versatility of butter beans, from stews and salads to dips and burgers. They not only offer a delightful taste but also bring health benefits with their high fiber and protein content. Incorporating butter beans into your diet can enhance your meals with both nutrition and flavor, making them a must-try for anyone looking to add more plant-based options to their meals.

Can I use dried butter beans instead of canned?

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Yes, you can use dried butter beans. Remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before using them in any recipe.

What are the health benefits of butter beans?

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Butter beans are high in dietary fiber, which helps with digestion, and they’re a good source of protein, iron, magnesium, and various vitamins.

How long do butter beans last in the fridge after cooking?

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Cooked butter beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when placed in an airtight container.