Southern butter beans, also known as lima beans, are a staple in many Southern households. They are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and casseroles. One of the most popular ways to cook butter beans is to simmer them with bacon, onion, and garlic. This classic dish, known as "Southern Butter Beans Millies," is a flavorful and comforting side dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Here are our top 4 tried and tested recipes!
SOUTHERN BUTTER BEANS
Butter beans the way Mamaw used to make them! Lots of butter, cream, and bacon make these beans true southern comfort food.
Provided by Mardon Fergeson Hickford
Categories Side Dish Beans and Peas
Time 9h20m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Cover lima beans with water in a large pot and soak overnight. Drain and return lima beans to the pot; cover beans with fresh water.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes. Reserve about 2 teaspoons bacon drippings and drain bacon on paper towels.
- Bring lima beans, bacon, and reserved bacon drippings to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until beans are just tender, 40 to 60 minutes. Stir heavy cream and butter into bean mixture and cook until thickened, about 15 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 424.7 calories, Carbohydrate 36.4 g, Cholesterol 77.6 mg, Fat 25.3 g, Fiber 10.6 g, Protein 14.9 g, SaturatedFat 15 g, Sodium 235.9 mg, Sugar 4.8 g
SOUTHERN BUTTER BEANS RECIPE
This Southern butter beans recipe combines tender and creamy beans with smoky ham for the most flavorful comfort meal.
Provided by Hayley
Time 3h
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Now, you can choose to soak the beans overnight if you want, but you really don't have to. Either way, the first step is to wash the beans, and then put them in a large pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Boil for 3 to 5 minutes, then turn off the heat, cover and let it sit for 1 hour.
- After the beans have sat, drain the water and put the beans to the side. Add the oil to the pot and sauté the ham hocks and onions together, until the onion is clear and tender. Then add garlic and sauté about 2 minutes more. Add the beans and cover with water. Add pepper and salt (only about 1 teaspoon of salt at first).
- Bring to a boil; stir, reduce heat, and cover and simmer for about 2 hours. Keep checking the water level and stirring every once in a while. Add more water if needed. Keep that water just about an inch above the beans. Cook until beans are tender, more salt here is optional. And oh the gravy this makes, oh my... so good! Serve over rice
SOUTHERN BUTTER BEANS
Butter beans the way Mamaw used to make them! Lots of butter, cream, and bacon make these beans true southern comfort food.
Provided by Mardon Fergeson Hickford
Categories Bean and Pea Side Dishes
Time 9h20m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Cover lima beans with water in a large pot and soak overnight. Drain and return lima beans to the pot; cover beans with fresh water.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes. Reserve about 2 teaspoons bacon drippings and drain bacon on paper towels.
- Bring lima beans, bacon, and reserved bacon drippings to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until beans are just tender, 40 to 60 minutes. Stir heavy cream and butter into bean mixture and cook until thickened, about 15 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 424.7 calories, Carbohydrate 36.4 g, Cholesterol 77.6 mg, Fat 25.3 g, Fiber 10.6 g, Protein 14.9 g, SaturatedFat 15 g, Sodium 235.9 mg, Sugar 4.8 g
BUTTER BEANS WITH BUTTER, MINT, AND LIME
Provided by Matt Lee
Categories Bean Vegetable Side Mint Lima Bean Summer Lime Juice Sugar Conscious Vegetarian Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 6 cups water and 1 tablespoon salt to a boil over high heat. Add butter beans and cook until tender, 9-12 minutes, depending on the size of the beans. Drain in a colander; shake colander several times to shed as much water as possible.
- Put butter in a large serving bowl, and pour warm butter beans on top. Toss beans with butter until all the butter is melted. Add lime juice and toss again to distribute. Fold in mint, season with salt and pepper, and scatter lime zest over the top. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Choose fresh butter beans: Look for beans that are plump and have a bright green color. Avoid beans that are wrinkled or have brown spots.
- Soak the beans overnight: This will help to reduce cooking time and make the beans more tender.
- Use a variety of seasonings: Butter beans are a blank canvas for flavor, so don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and celery.
- Cook the beans until they are tender: The cooking time will vary depending on the type of bean and the method of cooking. However, the beans should be cooked until they are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
- Serve the beans with your favorite sides: Butter beans are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Some popular options include fried chicken, pork chops, and grilled fish.
Conclusion:
Southern butter beans are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With their creamy texture and mild flavor, butter beans are a great addition to any meal. So next time you're looking for a simple and satisfying side dish, give Southern butter beans a try. You won't be disappointed!
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