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Lima Beans

Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are a popular legume with a mild, starchy flavor and creamy texture. Native to Central and South America, they are now grown worldwide and used in various culinary dishes. These beans are a good source of dietary fiber and protein, making them a healthy and satisfying choice for vegetarians and vegans. The beans are carefully sorted, cleaned, and cooked to perfection before being packaged to lock in their freshness. The prepared lima beans have a long shelf life, ensuring you always have a convenient source of protein and fiber on hand. The cooked beans make meal preparation a breeze, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. Lima beans can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into hearty soups, salads, casseroles and side dishes, offering a multitude of delectable combinations for home cooks to explore.
#8
IN BEANS & LEGUMES
338
CAL / 100G
$0.09
AVG / OZ
lima beans
74%
CARBS
1%
FAT
25%
PROTEIN
Lima Beans FAQ
When cooking with lima beans, many people wonder about the best ways to prepare them, how to enhance their flavor, and if they need to be soaked before cooking. A common mistake people make is not cooking the beans properly - either undercooking, overcooking or not seasoning them enough. Undercooked lima beans can be hard and indigestible, while overcooked ones turn mushy. Insufficient seasoning can leave the beans bland. To get the most out of your lima beans, soak them overnight before cooking. This process softens the beans and reduces cooking time. Cooking the beans with aromatic herbs, spices, and even a dash of vinegar can greatly enhance their flavor. A little-known tip is to add a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water - it helps maintain the beans' bright color and makes them even creamier. While canned lima beans are a convenient option, dried, soaked beans offer the best flavor and texture. Also, do remember to discard the soaking water before cooking to help remove any naturally occurring toxins in the beans.
How can I make lima beans taste better?
What is the nutritional benefit of lima beans?
Do I need to soak lima beans before cooking?
How long do I cook lima beans?
Are lima beans and butter beans the same thing?
Can I cook lima beans in a slow cooker?
Why are my cooked lima beans still hard?
Can I eat raw lima beans?
Can I cook lima beans in a pressure cooker?
What dishes go well with lima beans?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does lima beans expire?
Unopened canned lima beans usually have a shelf life of 2-5 years past the printed date on the package, provided it's stored in a cool, dry place. Once the can has been opened, the beans should be used within 3-4 days if kept in the refrigerator. For dried lima beans, they can last up to 2-3 years if stored correctly, but are best used within a year to maintain quality. However, if they're soaked, they should be cooked and eaten within 2-3 days. Frozen lima beans can stay good for up to 8-12 months, but they're best eaten within the first 4 months.
How do you tell if lima beans is bad?
If your lima beans have a funky smell, are discolored, or if you see any mold, discard them immediately as these are signs of spoilage. In case of canned beans, if the can is bulged or leaking, do not consume the beans. Dried beans are quite durable, but if they develop an off smell or mold, it's best to throw them away. For frozen beans, severe freezer burn or any strange odor is an indication that they may have gone bad.
Tips for storing lima beans to extend shelf life
• Store unopened cans of lima beans in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. • Once opened, transfer any remaining beans to a covered glass or plastic container and refrigerate. Use within a few days. • Dry lima beans should be kept in an airtight container in a dark, cool place to preserve their quality. • To store cooked lima beans, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll last about 3-4 days. • When freezing lima beans, blanch them first then store in airtight bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. • When defrosting frozen beans, move them to the refrigerator for slow thawing. To speed up the process, you can immerse the bag in warm water or directly cook them from their frozen state in stews or soups.
EXPIRES WITHIN
19 - 29
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
59g
CARBS
0g
FAT
20g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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