Lima Beans – the Buttery Bean l

What is Lima beans?
The Lima bean is also known as the butter bean. It’s called a butter bean because of the soft buttery texture and flavour it hides beneath a flat and oblong shape.
The Lima bean comes inside a long three inch pod. Each pod contains between two and four Lima beans. The beans are generally shaped like a kidney and are pale green in colour  Some people think that the Lima bean tastes a lot like a potato. Explorers in South America brought the beans to Europe and Asia.
They were introduced in Africa and eventually made their way to the United States. Lima beans began being cultivated in the U.S. in the 19th century. The majority of Lima beans grown in the U.S. are grown in California. They do require a warm and humid climate, making California an ideal location.

Health Benefits
Lima beans are high in tryptophan. That’s the same ingredient in turkey and milk that makes people feel sleepy. It’s an essential amino acid that is required for optimal bodily function.
Lima beans are also high in protein, folate, iron and fibre  They contain the element, molybdenum, which helps your body process sulphites  If you’re sensitive or allergic to sulphites you may reduce your symptoms by eating Lima beans. One cup of cooked Lima beans provides 13 grams of fibre – more than 50% of the recommended daily value. That same cup of cooked Lima beans also has just over 200 calories.

How to Eat
The most notable Lima bean recipe is succotash. It’s a Native American recipe that still remains quite popular today. Lima beans can also be enjoyed steamed and fresh from the pod like edamame. They’re also often puréed and flavoured with spices, garlic, and onions to make a hummus like dip. They’re also spectacular when added to soups. Lima beans are rich in protein and when consumed with rice provide a complete protein for your body. You can eat Lima beans and rice instead of meat for a low fat protein rich meal.
While Lima beans may not have been a childhood favourite you may be surprised how tasty they are as an adult. Their delicate flavour and soft buttery texture make them a delightful addition to soups and stews. Eaten alone or in a dish with other vegetables and beans the buttery Lima bean is a nutritious choice.