Question 1

What do butter beans taste like?

Accepted Answer

Butter beans (lima beans) are quite buttery and velvety in texture, hence the name. However, they are quite mild in flavour - which actually makes a great potato substitute and one which you can flavour and enhance in a multitude of ways.

Question 2

Is it healthy?

Accepted Answer

Healthy is a subjective word, depending on what you are looking for as part of a balanced diet. When compared to potatoes there are quite a few benefits:

•	Beans are higher in fibre than potatoes
•	Beans are higher in protein than potatoes
•	It has a low GI (glycemic Index) - meaning they are absorbed more slowly in the body than other carbs and don't cause a big spike in blood sugar - and as a result leave you feeling more satisfied for longer.

Question 3

Can I use dried beans?

Accepted Answer

While I typically buy canned butter beans for convenience, you can absolutely use dried beans instead. As a rule of thumb, you will need around half the amount of dried beans vs cooked tinned beans. (Note: the drained weight of canned beans is significantly less than the full tinned weight with the juices so use the drained weight as a guide) 

When using dried beans you need to cook them first. Soak for several hours before boiling (or overnight) and then simmer for an hour before you start to follow the recipe below.

Question 4

What variations can I make?

Accepted Answer

You can get really inventive with this dish. Given how unassuming and mild in flavour it is, you can add a whole host of different flavours to jazz it up. A few ideas include:

Pesto - stir in a tablespoon or two of pesto for an additional sweet and colourful note. Green pesto works well or you could even try it with this homemade red pesto.
Tahini - Not just for hummus! add a little Middle-Eastern flavour with some sticky, nutty tahini. A tablespoon will go a long way! 
Rocket & Parmesan - I love making this as a fancy mashed potato variation, it works just as well with this butter bean mash. After mashing scatter a tablespoons of grated parmesan and a small handful of rocket and stir together.
Parsnip & Rosemary - Add a little extra veg to the recipe by mashing in some roasted parsnips and scattering in some rosemary leaves. You can also find a potato version here.

Question 5

How long does it keep?

Accepted Answer

You can make this butter bean mash and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow it to fully cool before transferring to a sealed container and placing in the fridge. You can reheat it on the hob/stove or in the microwave (make sure it's warmed the whole way through). 

You can also freeze this for up to 3 months. Freeze in a sealed container and it's recommended to pat down a layer of cling film over the top to prevent freezer burn. Allow to thoroughly defrost before reheating.

Butter Bean Mash

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition