A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Vegetarian Dish Using the Humble Butter Bean
If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian meal that satisfies like comfort food but delivers bold, fragrant flavor, this Creamy Curried Butter Beans recipe checks every box. With its rich coconut curry base, tender butter beans, and a mix of warming spices, this dish is not only easy to make but also deeply nourishing and protein-packed.
Whether you’re cooking on a budget, reducing meat in your diet, or looking for new bean vegetarian recipes, this dish is ideal. It can be served over rice, spooned onto warm naan, or enjoyed as a thick soup with crusty bread. And the best part? It uses canned butter beans, making this recipe perfect for pantry cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Pantry-friendly: Uses canned butter beans and basic spices.
- Vegan and gluten-free: Naturally plant-based.
- High in protein and fiber: Thanks to the beans and coconut milk.
- Comforting and customizable: Can be spicy, mild, thick, or brothy.
What Are Butter Beans?
Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are large, flat, and creamy white legumes. When cooked, they become tender and buttery—ideal for absorbing bold curry flavors. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and iron, making them a great base for bean-based recipes.
Tip: You can use canned, drained butter beans for convenience or cook them from dry if you prefer a scratch-made approach.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1–2 tbsp curry powder (mild or spicy, to taste)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp turmeric (optional)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon or 1 tbsp vinegar (for brightness)
- Handful of fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional Add-Ins and Substitutions
- Add 2 cups spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
- Add 1 diced sweet potato for a heartier stew.
- Use chickpeas or cannellini beans if you don’t have butter beans.
- Replace coconut milk with plant-based cream or cashew cream.
- Add fresh chili or chili flakes for more heat.
How to Make Creamy Curried Butter Beans
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft and golden (about 5–7 minutes).
Add garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Spices
Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric. Let the spices toast for 1–2 minutes to release their aromas.
This step is crucial—”blooming” the spices brings out deeper flavor.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Add diced tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
Step 4: Add Coconut Milk and Beans
Pour in the coconut milk and drained butter beans. Stir well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes until thick and creamy.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot.
How to Serve Curried Butter Beans
This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Over basmati rice or brown rice
- With naan, roti, or pita bread
- Over mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Tucked into a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies
- On its own as a hearty bean stew
Pro tip: Serve with a spoonful of yogurt or a dollop of coconut cream for extra richness.
Storage and Meal Prep
This dish tastes even better the next day!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
- Ideal for meal prep—make a big batch and portion into containers.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Iron: 20% DV
This dish is a filling, balanced meal perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet or anyone trying to incorporate more foods with beans.
Tips for the Best Curried Beans
- Use good-quality curry powder or make your own spice mix.
- Don’t rush the sautéing—caramelized onions create depth.
- Always toast your spices for better flavor.
- Add acid (lemon or vinegar) at the end to brighten the dish.
- Adjust the thickness with a splash of water or broth.
The Beauty of Bean-Based Cooking
Beans are a powerhouse ingredient in plant-based cooking. They’re budget-friendly, shelf-stable, and incredibly versatile. From burritos to chili to curries, beans can be seasoned in endless ways to create hearty, flavorful meals.
Butter beans specifically offer a creamy texture that mimics richness without needing dairy. When paired with the warming spices of curry, they become luxurious and deeply comforting.
Variations to Try
- North African Style: Add cinnamon, allspice, and preserved lemon.
- Indian-Inspired: Add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and garam masala.
- Caribbean-Style: Use thyme, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers.
- Add Veggies: Cauliflower, zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Make It Brothy: Add vegetable broth and enjoy it as a bean soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans?
Yes. Soak and cook 1 cup dried butter beans until soft, then proceed with the recipe.
Can I use another type of bean?
Yes. Chickpeas, navy beans, or great northern beans all work well.
Is this spicy?
Not necessarily—it depends on your curry powder. Adjust spice to your taste.
Can I make this oil-free?
Yes. Sauté the onions in a bit of water or broth instead of oil.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Sauté aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Curried Butter Beans are a celebration of humble ingredients transformed by spice, care, and creativity. This dish is everything we love about comfort food: rich, creamy, and full of flavor—but it’s also nourishing, affordable, and easy to make.
Whether you’re diving into more vegetarian mains, exploring global flavors, or just need a quick, satisfying dinner, this bean curry recipe is a must-try. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new staple in your weekly meal rotation.
