Get ready to experience a velvety symphony of flavors with our delightful Butter Beans Recipe. These tender legumes are transformed into a creamy masterpiece infused with aromatic herbs, making it a perfect side dish or standalone vegetarian delight. With its rich texture and enticing herbal notes, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings while adding a touch of elegance to any meal.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups
- Calories: 180 per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (400 g) butter beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried rosemary
- 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the soaked butter beans. Cook them over medium heat for about 20 minutes or until they are tender. Drain the beans in a colander and set them aside.
Step 2:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3:
Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary into the skillet and stir them into the onion and garlic mixture. Allow the herbs to infuse their flavors for a minute or two.
Step 4:
Add the cooked butter beans to the skillet, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, ensuring that the beans are coated with the herb-infused mixture.
Step 5:
Pour in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper to taste, and gently stir the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a twist of freshness, garnish the butter beans with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a plant-based alternative for the heavy cream.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the dish. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to retain the creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts:
This Butter Beans Recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and herbs. The creamy texture of the beans, combined with the aromatic blend of thyme and rosemary, creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a vegetarian main course, this recipe will surely impress your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I use canned butter beans instead of dried ones?
A1: Yes, you can use canned butter beans if you prefer a quicker cooking process. Simply drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the skillet in Step 4. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as canned beans are already cooked.
Q2: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
A2: Certainly! If you prefer a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the texture and richness of the dish may vary slightly.
Q3: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
A3: Absolutely! If you have fresh thyme and rosemary on hand, feel free to use them instead of the dried herbs. Use a larger quantity of fresh herbs compared to the dried ones, as their flavors are more subtle.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! This recipe serves as a versatile base that can be customized to your liking. You can add sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even cooked bacon to enhancethe flavors. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly.
Q5: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this butter beans recipe. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q6: Can I make this recipe spicy?
A6: Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet in Step 3. Adjust the amount according to your personal preference and spice tolerance.
Q7: Can I serve this as a main course?
A7: Yes, you can definitely serve this butter beans recipe as a main course, especially for vegetarian meals. Consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Q8: Can I use other types of beans instead of butter beans?
A8: Certainly! While butter beans work beautifully in this recipe, you can experiment with other legumes as well. Great alternatives include cannellini beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the specific beans you choose.
Enjoy your culinary journey with this creamy herb-infused Butter Beans Recipe. May it bring joy to your taste buds and create memorable moments around the dining table!
