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Finished butter bean recipe served with olive oil, herbs, and crusty bread.

butter beans recipe


  • Author: Amanda
  • Total Time: 13 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Description

This creamy and comforting butter beans recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and nutritious dish. Perfect as a main course or a hearty side, this butter bean stew is packed with protein, fiber, and delicious savory flavors. Learn how to make the best butter beans with our easy step-by-step guide!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried butter beans
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for richer flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the dried butter beans thoroughly. Place them in a large bowl and cover with plenty of cold water. Let them soak for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.
  2. After soaking, drain and rinse the butter beans again. Transfer them to a large pot and cover with fresh water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the butter beans are tender but not mushy. Drain, reserving 1 cup cooking liquid.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, cooked butter beans, reserved cooking liquid, vegetable broth, thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Soaking the butter beans is crucial for reducing cooking time and making them more digestible.
  • Use high-quality broth for the best flavor. Vegetable broth keeps the recipe vegetarian.
  • Adjust seasonings to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
  • For a creamier texture, mash some of the butter beans before serving.
  • Prep Time: 12 hours 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 320 Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 15g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: butter beans, lima beans, butter bean recipe, butter bean stew, vegetarian recipe, vegan recipe, healthy recipe, side dish, main course, creamy beans, easy recipe