What are butter beans?

"butter beans" are a common name for phaseolus lunatus , a legume that many consider to be vegetables. They are often compared to the more common Lima beans and both share many similarities - but most gardeners claim that they are not really similar in spite of their similar biological features. They are very common in the traditions of cooking the American south and also occur in many Mediterranean meals.

Basic characteristics

beans are usually white or creamy colored and are flat and slightly curved in the shape. It usually measures between 0.25 and 1 inch (approximately 0.6 to 2.5 cm) in length. Some varieties are spotted with brown or deep purple spots, although most of the time these colored aberrations are limited to domestic varieties-thread most commercially available beans are evenly creamy colored.

There are two theories as the beans have acquired their colloquial name. The first ries their color; Most of them are the shadow of fresh cream butter. The taste may also be the origin ofBecause beans have a smooth, almost butter taste after cooking.

Relation to Lima Beans

Beans butter beans are genetically very similar to Limu beans and there is a certain dispute in terms of whether they are actually a series of Lima beans. Most Limas is slightly larger with a green shade, although they are known to shrink; Sometimes they are even white.

Mountains usually agree that Lima beans were originally grown in mountain areas of South America, while butter beans come from warmer climate of Mexico. They are genetically similar and can often be used interchangeably in recipes. However, most legumers of legumes question the claim that they are the same and the same.

culinary use and popularity

Beans are very commonly used by the kitchen of the American South. Are often cooked and served separately as a side dish, usually spiced slightly more than salt and pepper and a little masla. They also contain strongly in cassette and bean cakes. Some cooks also add them to corn bread, soups, stewed meat and chilis.

availability and vegetation period

Fresh butter beans usually reach the peak of harvest in the late summer months. Gardeners usually plant them just after the last frost of the year, because they are quite sensitive to cold soil. Plants must usually be set because most of them will rise; They will usually produce seed pods early in the spring and will develop into fully grown beans by the end of the summer. Seeds are often reserved for growing next season, although seeds are also available from many kindergartens and commercial centers for garden supply.

The popularity of beans has led many commercial food companies to pack and sell them all year round. Canneodrums D are the most popular, although sometimes dried or frozen versions can be purchased. Most chefs prefer workWith fresh beans, but wide commercial availability, it facilitated the production of butter beans recipes throughout the year.

nutritional value

Beans of butter butter beans are generally considered quite healthy. They have a high content of vitamin C, vitamin A and thiamine; They are also a good source of protein and have a very low calorie and fat content. Of course, these positive nutritional benefits can overshadow the preparation method - discarding beans in butter or strong sauces can bring some high caloric meals.