Butter Beans recipe – Like Willie Mae’s of New Orleans

Butter Beans recipe – Like Willie Mae’s of New Orleans

One trip to New Orleans, and you’ll be hooked. But Tom, gas prices are so high, I can’t afford to go to New Orleans.

Not to worry, I’ve made these before, and this is the best recipe that I’ve found so far.

Southern Butter Beans

Beth Mueller – thank you for another great recipe

I wonder if this is how the boxer, “ButterBean” got his actual name.

The recipe is simple, and honestly, I would only change it very little by adding a single teaspoon of salt.

1 pound dried large lima beans
½ large onion diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Creole seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (I did not include this)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 bay leaves
½ cup salted butter – One Stick
1 cup diced ham optional

I soaked the beans overnight in the fridge which is easier than doing the quick soak. It depends on if you are better at planning, or just in a rush. Both are ok.

Place your soaked beans in a stock pot and add enough water to just cover. In my case it was 4 cups, maybe I could have used a little bit less.

Also, I’d like to add that next time I do this, I’ll cook it with the lid off. I can always add a little water if necessary. A little less water will make it creamier. Though I was not disappointed.

Bring the beans to a simmer. Once simmering, add the rest of the ingredients except for the ham.

After about an hour, add the diced ham

Test the beans for doneness 1 ½ hour into the cooking and test every 10 minutes until they are to the tenderness that you like.

Serve over a little rice.