Butter Beans Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried butter beans (lima beans)
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon (diced)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons chicken base (bouillon or vegetable base)
• 4 cups water

Instructions

1. 1

   Soak the beans: Place the dried beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Soak for 12-24 hours. If you are in a hurry, most bags of beans have a “speed-soak” method listed on the package.

2. 2

   Set a large 6-8 quart sauce pot over medium heat. Add the bacon. Stir and brown for 3-5 minutes. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Sauté for 5 minutes to soften.

3. 3

   Drain the beans. Then pour the beans into the pot. Add in the chicken base and water. Stir well.

4. 4

   Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, until the butter beans are soft.

5. 5

   Taste, then salt and pepper as needed.