Forktionary

Baby Lima Beans

Phaseolus lunatus Legume, Vegetable

Baby Lima Beans Legume, Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Legume, Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"Reclaiming the often-maligned bean: how to make baby lima beans a culinary delight."

Definition

Small, flat, pale green legumes with a delicate, creamy texture and mild, buttery flavor, often used in Southern American cuisine.

Cooking Time (dried) 45-60 minutes
Fiber Content 5g per 100g (cooked)
Protein Content 7g per 100g (cooked)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Baby Lima Beans are:

Mild Buttery Creamy Slightly Starchy Earthy

Chef’s Secret

For a richer, more complex flavor, simmer baby lima beans with a smoked ham hock or a strip of bacon, then finish with a dollop of butter and fresh herbs.

Best Substitutes

Edamame

firmer
Ratio 1:1

Shelled Peas

sweeter
Ratio 1:1

Fava Beans

earthier
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Available fresh, frozen, or dried. For fresh, look for firm, green pods. For frozen, ensure no freezer burn.

Culinary Pairings

Bacon ham corn butter herbs (thyme sage) onions garlic okra

Recipes Using Baby Lima Beans

Baby Lima Beans With Tomatoes And Sage image 108
30 Minutes Or Less Occasion Time To Make Course

Baby Lima Beans With Tomatoes And Sage

Experience a burst of flavor with this vibrant recipe for Baby Lima Beans with Tomatoes and Sage! Philadelphia chef Aliza Green's recipe, featured in "Quick & Healthy Low-Fat Cooking," highlights the fiber-rich goodness of baby lima beans, perfectly complemented by garlic and juicy tomatoes. This 30-minute meal is quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying.

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Baby Lima Beans And Corn image
Low Protein Low Cholesterol Dietary 4 Hours Or Less

Baby Lima Beans And Corn

Transport yourself to a Southern kitchen with this heartwarming recipe for Baby Lima Beans and Corn! This classic side dish, often called 'butter beans,' is perfect for potlucks, buffets, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Made with tender baby lima beans, sweet corn, and savory bacon drippings, this recipe evokes the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish alongside fried chicken, ham, pork chops, or your favorite protein. Get ready to experience the taste of Grandma's table!

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3 Kinds Of Beans Baked Bean Dish image 101
Oven Course Side Dishes Cuisine

3 Kinds Of Beans Baked Bean Dish

This award-winning baked bean recipe is a family favorite! Three types of beans combine with smoky bacon, tangy ketchup, and sweet brown sugar for a flavor explosion. Melted Velveeta cheese adds a creamy, irresistible finish. Get ready for the most delicious baked beans you've ever tasted!

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Baby Lima Beans And Corn In Chive Cream image
Equipment Course 30 Minutes Or Less Stove Top

Baby Lima Beans And Corn In Chive Cream

Elevate your vegetable game with this gourmet recipe! Tender baby lima beans and sweet corn swim in a luscious chive cream sauce, finished with crispy bacon. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that tastes like a million bucks.

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Chicken And Yam Soup image 116
Time To Make Preparation Poultry Course

Chicken And Yam Soup

This comforting and flavorful Chicken and Yam Soup recipe, adapted from "365 Easy One-Dish Meals," is a delicious weeknight meal ready in under an hour! Enjoy tender chicken and sweet yams in a savory broth, perfect for a cozy night in. (Pro-tip: feel free to substitute cannellini beans for lima beans for a unique twist!)

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3 Bean Casserole Bourbon Beans image 102
Oven Dietary 4 Hours Or Less Side Dishes

3 Bean Casserole Bourbon Beans

This award-winning 3-bean casserole recipe is a family favorite, perfect for potlucks, picnics, holidays, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Our secret? A hint of bourbon for a depth of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more! (Note: Requires 2 hours of chilling time before baking – included in total cook time.)

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Smoked Sausage Cassoulet image
Potluck Main Ingredient Winter Preparation

Smoked Sausage Cassoulet

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Smoked Sausage Cassoulet, a classic French recipe elevated for the modern palate. This hearty one-pot wonder is bursting with smoky sausage, tender beans, sweet apples, and fragrant herbs. The recipe's slow-simmered magic develops incredible depth, making it taste even better the next day! Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

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Bean Vegetable Medley image 105
4 Hours Or Less Low In Something Healthy 2 Low Cholesterol

Bean Vegetable Medley

This comforting Bean & Vegetable Medley Casserole is a delicious and easy one-pot meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Bursting with flavor from a medley of beans, barley, and fresh vegetables, this recipe is both hearty and healthy. The simple instructions make it perfect for beginner cooks, while the customizable ingredient options cater to all tastes. Serve it alongside marinated vegetables and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

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