butter bean

Butter Bean

Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are creamy, pale green legumes prized for their delicate, buttery flavor and smooth, slightly starchy texture. These large, flat beans offer a mild, subtly sweet taste that complements a variety of dishes. Whether fresh, dried, or frozen, butter beans add a comforting and nutritious element to soups, stews, salads, and side dishes. Discover the versatility of butter beans and explore their culinary potential.

Common Uses

  • Add butter beans to hearty vegetarian stews for a creamy texture and added protein; their mild flavor absorbs the flavors of the broth and other vegetables beautifully.
  • Puree cooked butter beans with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice to create a flavorful and healthy dip, perfect with crusty bread or raw vegetables.
  • Incorporate butter beans into refreshing summer salads with tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs; their creamy texture balances the crisp vegetables.
  • Sauté butter beans with pancetta, garlic, and herbs like sage or rosemary for a simple yet elegant side dish that showcases their buttery flavor.
  • Use butter beans as a base for a creamy vegan pasta sauce; blend them with nutritional yeast, vegetable broth, and spices for a rich and satisfying meal.
  • Mash cooked butter beans and mix them with breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices to form delicious and nutritious veggie burgers that are a great alternative to meat.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

121.0kcal (6.05%)

Protein

8.6g (17.18%)

Carbs

21.7g (7.89%)

Sugars

1.9g (3.74%)

Healthy Fat

0.2g

Unhealthy Fat

0.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of plant-based protein for muscle building and repair.
  • High in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation.
  • Rich in folate (vitamin B9), crucial for cell growth and development, especially during pregnancy.
  • Provides essential minerals like iron for energy and preventing anemia.
  • Contains potassium, which supports healthy blood pressure levels.
  • May contribute to heart health due to its fiber and nutrient content.

Storage Tips

To maximize freshness, store dried butter beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry. Properly stored, they can last for several years. Cooked butter beans should be refrigerated promptly in an airtight container and consumed within 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooked butter beans for longer storage; spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent clumping, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container once frozen. Frozen butter beans can last up to 6-8 months.

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