Lima Bean
Phaseolus lunatusA dried bean variety known for its large, flat, kidney-shaped beans, also known as the butter bean. Takes on a soft, creamy texture once boiled.
What Are Lima Beans?
Lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus) are a dried bean variety named after Lima, the capital of Peru, and known for their large, flat, kidney-shaped beans. In English, they are also called butter beans because of their creamy texture.
They are larger and flatter than many other dried beans, and become soft, creamy, and mildly sweet when boiled.
Lima Bean Nutrition Facts
100 grams of boiled lima beans contain about 115 kcal, 7.8 g of plant-based protein, and 7 g of fiber. They are also rich in iron, manganese, and folate.
What Are the Benefits of Lima Beans?
Rich in fiber and plant-based protein, lima beans are a filling, low-fat food that can be part of a balanced diet. Their slowly digested carbohydrates have traditionally made them a component of meals thought to provide energy for a long time.
This is general information. Lima beans are a food, not a medical treatment.
How to Choose Lima Beans
Good-quality lima beans should be cream-colored to white, smooth, and unbroken.
- The beans should be uniform in size; a mix of different sizes may cook unevenly.
- A faded or darkened color is a sign that they are stale.
- There should be no dust buildup at the bottom of the package.
How to Store Lima Beans
Dried lima beans can be stored for up to 1 year in a sealed container in a cool, dark cupboard. Boiled beans stay fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator and can be stored in the freezer for a few months.
How to Use Lima Beans in the Kitchen
Boiled lima beans stand out for their creamy texture in salads, soups, and stews; they are often cooked in South American and Southern U.S. cuisines.
How to Cook Lima Beans
Soak the beans overnight, drain them, and simmer in plenty of water for 45–60 minutes, until tender. Their skins are thin, so they can fall apart if overcooked.
How to Make Lima Bean Stew
Cook boiled lima beans with onion, corn, and tomato over low heat to make succotash, a classic dish of the American South.
What Recipes Use Lima Beans?
Lima bean salad, succotash stew, vegetable lima bean stew, and lima bean soup are among the best-known ways to use them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between lima beans and Turkish white beans (kuru fasulye)?
Lima beans are larger, flatter, and creamier in texture. They are a separate species (Phaseolus lunatus) and are botanically different from the traditional Turkish kuru fasulye (Phaseolus vulgaris).
Can lima beans be eaten raw?
No. Raw lima beans may naturally contain harmful compounds, so they must be thoroughly soaked and cooked before eating.
What are lima beans good for?
They are rich in fiber, plant-based protein, and iron, and are a nutritious part of a balanced diet. They are a food and are not claimed to cure any disease.
Are butter beans and lima beans the same?
Yes. Butter bean is a common English name for lima beans, referring to their creamy texture; it describes the same species.
How can you cook lima beans without them falling apart?
Avoid boiling them over very high heat and cook them over low heat to help the thin-skinned lima beans hold their shape.