Hurst’s Thanksgiving Butter Beans

With the holiday just around the corner, it’s a great time to look at Thanksgiving recipes that utilize Hurst’s® products. Butter Beans are incredibly easy to make, and at less than .70¢ per serving it is a delicious AND economical side item for any Thanksgiving table.

If you are looking for something “new” this year to serve with your traditional turkey and gravy, give this recipe a try and you will see why it has become a staple item on our family’s Thanksgiving menu. With a perfect balance of creamy texture and savory taste, Butter Beans are great year round but work especially well with holiday roasts.

What you need:

1- Package Hurst’s® HamBeens® Large Limas

1 lbs. finely diced, lean ham (Can substitute the provided Ham Flavor packet if desired)

1/2 cup diced shallot (can substitute white onion)

2 cloves chopped garlic

1 stick (8 tbsp.) butter (come on, it’s Thanksgiving!)

2 bay leafs

3 cups water

1 tbsp. olive oil

Salt and Pepper to taste

1/2 cup minced green onion (for garnish)

1. Pour the dry beans into a colander or sieve. Sort and rinse the beans thoroughly with cold water. Check for any dirt or debris that may be present and discard.Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with 2″ of water. Allow the beans to soak for at least 2-3 hours prior to cooking. When ready, discard any remaining water and set the beans aside. Preheat oven to 350º.

2. In a large dutch oven (or oven safe pot with lid), sauté the shallot and garlic with the oil over medium-high heat. When the shallot becomes translucent (4-5 minutes) add the diced ham and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes.

3. Add the Limas and water, turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the butter, bay leafs, and cracked black pepper (no salt yet!). Stir the mixture to combine, then cover and place into your preheated oven.

4. Cook for 1 hour, stirring once half way through. When finished, some of the Limas should have broken down and combined with the butter to create a cream-like texture. Add salt and more black pepper to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.