A bowl of butter bean stew with a spoon lifting some of the beans

Hey there, fellow foodies! If you’re looking for a healthy and satisfying meal packed with flavor, you’ve got to try vegan butter bean stew. These tasty little legumes are simmered in a savory broth with various herbs and spices, resulting in a dish bursting with goodness. And best of all, this dish is completely vegan-friendly, so you can enjoy all the goodness without animal products.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, butter beans stew are a delicious and nutritious option, you won’t want to miss. So why not whip up a batch tonight and treat yourself to a truly satisfying and wholesome meal? Trust us; your taste buds (and body) will thank you!

closeup overhead shot of stewed butter beans

Tips and tricks 

  • Don’t overcook the beans: Overcooking can result in mushy beans that lose their texture and flavor. Keep a close eye on them and test for tenderness as you cook.
  • Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices, such as paprika, turmeric, or chili powder, to give it a different flavor profile.
  • Use high-quality vegetable broth to add depth and richness to the dish. Homemade broth is always best, but if you’re using store-bought, look for a brand that uses all-natural ingredients and no added MSG.
  • Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to make the dish your own.
canned butter bean in a bowl next to garlic, thyme and ginger

Can I use dry butter beans?

Yes! You can use dry butter beans in place of canned butter beans in this recipe. Just be aware that dry beans will require soaking and cooking before use in the stew. To prepare the dry beans, rinse them thoroughly and then soak them in water overnight (or for at least 8 hours). 

Drain the beans and then transfer them to a large pot with enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and let the beans cook until tender, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size and age of the beans. Once the beans are cooked, drain any excess liquid and add them to the stew as directed in the recipe.

an overhead shot of butter bean stew in the background with a spoonful in the foreground.

Are butter beans and lima beans the same thing?

Yes, butter beans and lima beans are the same things. In some regions, they may be referred to by different names, but they are both large, flat beans that are creamy in texture and slightly sweet in flavor.

Can you freeze butter bean stew?

Yes, leftover butter bean stew can be frozen for later. Simply transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat on the stove or microwave.

Are stewed butter beans gluten-free?

Yes, stewed butter beans are naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re using store-bought vegetable broth, check the label to ensure that it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I use other types of beans instead of butter beans?

Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile and can be made with various beans, such as cannellini beans, navy beans, or black beans. However, keep in mind that different types of beans will have slightly different textures and flavors, so the final dish may have a slightly different taste and mouthfeel than if you had used butter beans.

stewed butter beans in a tomato based sauce with a bowl of rice next to it.

How to serve butter bean stew?

Butter bean Stew are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with rice, quinoa, bread, or any other grain of your choice. You can also top them with fresh herbs, chopped nuts, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

No matter how you choose to serve it, stewed butter beans are a hearty and nutritious dish that is sure to satisfy! So why not try this recipe and discover the comfort and flavor of stewed butter beans for yourself? 

And if you love the dish, be sure to share it with your friends and family so that they can enjoy it too!

More Stewed Beans and Peas recipes

closeup overhead shot of stewed butter beans

Get the Recipe Butter Bean Stew

Ingredients
 

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tsp crushed garlic
  • 1 tsp crushed ginger
  • 1/2 purple onion, sliced
  • 6 sprigs thyme
  • 1 beef tomato, diced, about 2 cups
  • 2 – 14 oz can butter beans
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • cilantro to garnish

Instructions
 

  • To prepare the stewed butter beans, start by heating oil in a large pot. Once hot, add cumin and coriander and cook for around 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Next, add in minced garlic, ginger, onion, and thyme, and stir fry for about 2 minutes until the onion softens.
  • Once the onion is tender, add tomatoes and cook until they break down and become saucy. Then, add in your butter beans, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for around 20 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the flavors melded together beautifully. Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Author: Jehan Powell