Lima Beans Recipe With Cardoons and Carrots

If you’re searching for a comforting, plant-based meal, look no further than this lima beans recipe with cardoons and carrots. The combination of creamy lima beans, tender cardoons, and sweet carrots creates a nutritious and flavorful dish that satisfies. Whether you’re following a vegetarian lifestyle or simply want to add more legumes to your diet, this recipe is a wonderful option. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Lima Beans

Recipe by SouhailCuisine: Mediterranean cuisineDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

270

kcal

This lima beans recipe combines the earthy flavor of lima beans with the slightly bitter yet tender cardoons and sweet carrots for a nutritious, hearty meal. Packed with plant-based protein, it’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a flavorful side.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups dried lima beans (soaked overnight)
1 cup cardoons, cleaned and chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Lima Beans: Drain the soaked lima beans and rinse them under cold water. Set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Cook the Carrots and Cardoons: Add the chopped carrots and cardoons to the pot, sautéing for another 5 minutes. Season with cumin and smoked paprika, stirring well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
Simmer with Lima Beans: Add the drained lima beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the beans and vegetables are tender.
Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Soaking the lima beans overnight is essential to speed up cooking and ensure they soften properly.
Cardoons can sometimes be tough; ensure they are cleaned and trimmed well to remove any fibrous parts.

Additional Tips for perfect Lima Beans Recipe:

Meal Prep Friendly: This lima bean recipe is great for meal prepping! Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Substitute Fresh with Frozen: If fresh cardoons aren’t available, you can use frozen or canned artichokes as a substitute to maintain the earthy undertones.
Extra Flavor: For an extra punch of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color contrast.
Make it a Stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the lima beans with the back of a spoon to thicken the broth, turning the dish into a stew-like texture.

FAQ

Should I soak lima beans before cooking?

Yes, soaking dried lima beans for at least 6-8 hours or overnight can reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, then letting them sit covered for an hour before cooking.

How can I add more flavor to lima beans?

For extra flavor, cook the beans in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add garlic, onions, bay leaves, or herbs like thyme and rosemary. A smoked ham hock or bacon adds a delicious savory note if desired.

Can I use frozen lima beans instead of dried?

Yes, frozen lima beans are a convenient substitute and don’t require soaking. They cook faster than dried beans and can be added directly to recipes. Simply follow the package instructions for cooking time.

This lima bean recipe with cardoons and carrots is not only a celebration of wholesome ingredients but also a nod to traditional Mediterranean cooking, where simple, earthy flavors come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a hearty plant-based meal or a satisfying side dish, this Lima Beans Recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion. The creamy texture of the lima beans pairs beautifully with the tender cardoons and sweet carrots, offering a rich blend of flavors that’s both comforting and nourishing. Plus, it’s versatile and easy to customize, allowing you to make it your own. Add this delicious dish to your meal rotation, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again, embracing the joy of healthy, home-cooked food.

For more beans recipescheckour section about Bean recipes.