Butter beans,

Absolutely! Here’s a simple, hearty, and flavorful Butter Beans Recipe — Southern-style, comforting, and full of creamy texture. Butter beans (also called lima beans) can be made from fresh, frozen, or dried beans.

🫘 Southern-Style Butter Beans

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb butter beans (fresh or frozen)
  (If using dried: soak overnight and cook longer — see note below)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth or water

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp salt (to taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

• Optional: 1 smoked ham hock, bacon, or smoked turkey wing for extra flavor

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley, hot sauce, or a splash of vinegar

🍳 Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil or butter over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).

• Stir in the garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

2. Simmer the Beans:

• Add the butter beans to the pot.

• Pour in the broth (or water), and add the bay leaf, salt, pepper, paprika, and meat (if using).

• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35–45 minutes (or until beans are tender and creamy).

  Stir occasionally and add a bit more broth/water if needed.

3. Finish & Serve:

• Remove bay leaf (and any bones if using meat).

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

🍽️ Serving Ideas:

• Serve as a side dish with cornbread, collard greens, or fried chicken.

• Add rice for a complete meal.

• Stir in greens or diced tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.

🛠️ Notes for Dried Beans:

• Use 1 ½ cups dried butter beans, soak overnight, and cook 60–90 minutes or until tender.

• Add salt after beans are nearly cooked to avoid tough skins.