Grocery
Large Lima Beans
What it is
These are large, flat, pale green beans, also known as butter beans. They are a type of legume, grown for their edible seeds. The beans are typically sold dried or frozen, and sometimes canned. They have a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that makes them versatile in cooking. Lima beans are a staple in many cuisines, offering a satisfying and hearty addition to various dishes.
How people cook with it
Lima beans are a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into many different meals. Their creamy texture and mild flavor make them a good complement to a wide range of other ingredients.
- Added to stews and soups
- Mixed into salads
- Served as a side dish
- Used in casseroles
If using dried lima beans, they will need to be soaked overnight and then cooked until tender. Frozen lima beans are pre-cooked and can be added directly to dishes or heated through. Canned lima beans are also pre-cooked and can be rinsed and added to recipes. They can be simmered in broths, sautéed with vegetables, or mashed into dips. Their creamy texture holds up well during cooking, making them suitable for long simmering times in hearty dishes.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to smaller beans like navy beans or cannellini beans, lima beans are significantly larger and have a creamier, softer texture when cooked. Their flavor is also milder and less earthy, allowing them to absorb the flavors of other ingredients more readily.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a hearty and versatile legume to add to their meals.
How to keep the rest
Store dried lima beans in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Frozen lima beans should be kept in the freezer. Once opened, canned lima beans should be transferred to a separate container and refrigerated, and used within a few days.