Knowing how to cook lima beans is not only an essential kitchen skill, it's a necessary part of enjoying all of these beans' benefits. Raw lima beans contain a naturally occurring compound known as linamarin, which breaks down to cyanide (a toxic chemical) when the beans are chewed, damaged, or consumed raw. So, if you're making a dish featuring lima beans and want to ensure that you cook these beans perfectly, removing harmful chemical compounds in the process, you've landed on the right article. To ensure that you enjoy all the benefits this bean offers, we've put together a straightforward guide outlining lima beans' proper preparation and cooking methods. Read on to learn how to cook lima beans.
Lima Bean Origins
Lima beans originated in Lima, Peru, dating back to 6,000 B.C. Lima beans were such a massive part of the Peruvian culture that they appear in paintings on the ancient pottery of the Inca civilizations. Then in the 16th century, European colonizers traveled with the beans to other parts of the world, naming them after the South American city in which they originated. Nowadays, lima beans have several names, including butter beans, Christmas beans, Burma beans and sieva beans. Lima beans are used for all types of dishes, including salads, soups, stews and succotash.
Lima Beans vs. Butter Beans
When searching for ways to cook lima beans, chances are several articles featuring butter beans will appear. But are lima beans and butter beans the same thing? While they may feature variations in color, shape and size, lima beans and butter beans are the same legume. Some lima beans are small and pale green, while others are larger and bright green. The name used for these beans typically depends on where they are eaten. Butter beans are the more common name in the Southern United States and the United Kingdom. Lima beans are the dominant name everywhere else in the world.
Lima Bean Nutritional Information
Cooked lima beans are loaded with health benefits. Nutritionally, lima beans are a quality source of plant-based protein and fiber. In addition, they are a good source of iron and potassium.
How to Cook Lima Beans
How you cook lima beans depends on the type of lima bean purchased. Lima beans can be purchased fresh, frozen and dried. While dried lima beans are often the most economical choice, frozen and canned lima beans are more convenient. Continue reading for step-by-step instructions on how to cook each.
Cooking Dried Lima Beans
Dried lima beans, also known as dried butter beans, have a delicate buttery flavor and a tender texture when cooked. Whether you plan on enjoying lima beans as a side or as an ingredient in a main dish, this tasty legume is an excellent addition to any recipe.Because raw lima beans contain cyanide compounds, You should never eat lima beans raw. And while the process of cooking lima beans is a bit time-consuming, it's extremely simple. Follow the steps below to turn the dried lima beans in your pantry into a fantastic dish.
Step 1: Sort Lima Beans
Before you begin cooking with lima beans, examining them properly is a must. To do so, scatter the lima beans you plan to use on a plate. Then sort through the beans and toss any broken or dirty ones aside. During this process, you will also want to remove any small rocks or dirt that you find.
Step 2: Rinse Lima Beans
Now that you've sorted the lima beans and removed any broken ones, it's time to rinse them. Using a strainer, rinse lima beans in the sink with cold water. Doing so will remove any leftover dirt and impurities from the beans.
Step 3: Soak Beans
To reduce the cooking time, place dried lima beans into a bowl and cover them with water. Then allow the beans to soak overnight. In the morning, you will find the beans have doubled in size and that the water has been absorbed.
Step 4: Rinse Again
Now that the beans have had time to thoroughly soak, rinse and drain them at least three times until the water runs clear.
Step 5: Boil Beans
Pour the soaked beans into a medium-sized pot, and add water until they are fully covered. Then bring the beans and water to boil over medium-high heat. Because the amount of time it takes to boil beans will vary, you must observe the pot to check for a boil.
Step 6: Simmer
Once the water has reached a boil, reduce the heat to low and allow the lima beans to cook by simmering them for 40-60 minutes. During the cooking process, stir the beans regularly and check if they are tender.
Step 7: Remove and Serve
Ensure that the lima beans are fully cooked by checking to see if you can mash them between a fork or your fingers. If you can, remove the beans from the heat and strain the water before serving.Dried lima beans can also be cooked in a slow and multi-cooker. To learn more about the many ways that you can cook dried lima beans, check out these Basic Preparation Instructions for Large Lima Beans.
Cooking Fresh Lima Beans
Cooking fresh lima beans is similar to cooking dry beans, except they don't need to be soaked beforehand. When choosing fresh lima beans, search for dark green and glossy ones. Avoid beans that have signs of decay or blemishes.
Step 1: Shell the Beans
Lima beans will likely still be in their shells when purchased fresh, and will need to be shelled before they are cooked. To shell a lima bean, use your hands to twist the pod open and remove the beans. Place the lima beans into a bowl as you remove them.
Step 2: Rinse
Like dry beans, fresh lima beans must be rinsed before cooking. To rinse lima beans, use a strainer and run the fresh beans under water for 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer
Instead of boiling lima beans to cook them, fresh lima beans only require a simmer. To cook fresh lima beans, place the beans into a saucepan and cover them with water. Then, bring the water to a simmer and allow the beans to cook for 1 hour.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
When the lima beans are fully cooked, remove them from the saucepan and drain the water away from the beans before adding them to your favorite recipes.
Cooking Frozen Lima Beans
Frozen lima beans are an excellent option if you plan to store them for long periods. When frozen, lima beans will remain fresh for up to one year. And, because the lima beans are never dried, they will cook easier. Follow the steps below to turn frozen lima beans into a fantastic meal.
Step 1: Remove From the Freezer
If the lima beans in your freezer have been there for a while, shake the bag to check for clumps. If clumps are present, break the beans apart with your finger before adding them to your favorite recipes.
Step 2: Add to Hot Dishes
When cooking with frozen lima beans, there's no need to allow them to thaw beforehand. Instead, add frozen lima beans directly to hot dishes like soup, chili and rice. Then, cook the plate as you normally would.
Microwave Method
For fast enjoyment, frozen lima beans can also be cooked in the microwave. To do so, transfer frozen lima beans into a microwave-safe bowl, cover the dish, and cook on high for 8 minutes. This method is beneficial if you want to use the beans right away and don't plan on adding them to a hot dish.Now that you know the many ways that you can cook lima beans, it's time to begin adding this fantastic food to your weekly meals. Whether you plan on purchasing dried, fresh, frozen, or canned lima beans, the cooking method for each is pretty straightforward. Follow the steps above to ensure that your lima beans are always cooked to perfection. From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, We Wish You a healthy and happy day.If you are eager to learn more about lima beans, check out the article: What Are Lima Beans? and Are Lima Beans Good for You? To discover everything there is to know about this great legume.Do you enjoy cooking with lima beans? We'd love to hear about the recipes you've created with this tasty legume. Share your favorites with us in the comments below.
Cooking fresh lima beans is similar to cooking dry beans, except they don't need to be soaked beforehand. When choosing fresh lima beans, search for dark green and glossy ones. Avoid beans that have signs of decay or blemishes.
