How to Cook Butter Beans

Butter Beans at their Best

Learn how to cook butter beans (aka lima beans) like they were meant to taste - creamy and smooth and, depending on the recipe, filled with nutrition. Beans or legumes are an excellent source of protein without the high cholesterol or fat found in other protein sources. Enjoy your butter beans as comfort food, a side meal or a southern lunch treat!

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb dry Lima beans
• 2 quarts tap water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/4 cup of margarine
• OPTIONAL: ham, onions, bacon

Instructions

1. 

   Soak the beans in 2 quarts of tap water overnight.

2. 

   Drain and rinse the butter beans. Cover with fresh water and simmer for 40-60 minutes.

   *Continue with the next step when the beans are almost tender. Make sure they are not too tender or the end result will be mushy.

3. 

   Add the salt, margarine and pepper. Continue to simmer for approx. 30 minutes.

   *Make sure to check the butter beans to make sure they do not get mushy.
   *When they are done the broth will be starting to thicken.

4. 

   Enjoy your old fashioned butter beans and share with family and friends!

Tips & Warnings

• This recipe serves 6 people as a main dish, 12 people as an appetizer.

• Many people suggest cooking with bacon, salted ham, onions, etc. for more flavor.

• There are many variations to this recipe including some which include creamed milk.

• If you have a memory of butter beans from childhood, consider contacting family members for the exact way they were made or try this one first then experiment.

• Butter beans cooking times will vary depending on how old the beans are.

• Some people desire mushy butter beans, while others like them with more structure. cook to your individual liking.

Resources

• More ways to cook Butter Beans
• See More Articles by Luv2laugh