The lima beans, also identified as the butter peas or Madagascar beans, beans, are a type of legume known for their mild flavor, creamy texture, and unique color.
Their smooth texture, board shape, and butter taste make them a popular ingredient in soups, casseroles, stews, and any flavorful vegetarian meal.
If you can’t get lima beans in your local supermarket and you want a substitute that won’t compromise the taste or texture of your recipe.
We’ve compiled a list of the best lima bean substitutes for you. Each of these substitutes has a distinct flavor profile, they will work in dishes that call for lima beans.
keep reading to know more about these substitutes.
Contents
Lima Bean Substitutes
1. Red Kidney Beans
These reddish-brown legumes are available in both red and white. Because of their fluffy texture and mellow taste, kidney beans are commonly used in various bean dishes, such as soups and stews.
Kidney beans can take a little longer to cook, so they are best used as a substitute in dishes that require long, slow preparation time.
They have a stronger, more beany taste than lima beans making them an accurate substitute for lima beans in chili beans and stews
2. Soybeans
Soybeans can be used in a variety of recipes. Their versatility and nutritional value make them a good choice for a substitute.
These beans have a nutty aroma and grassy flavor, which makes them a great substitute for baked dishes, salads, and stir-fries.
They have a tough texture, so you may need to cook them longer to achieve the velvety texture of lima beans.
3. Cannellini Beans
Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans are nutrient-dense and a high–quality protein for vegetarians. Thanks to their fluffy texture and balanced flavor, they make a terrific base for many meals.
Cannellini beans have a mild, neutral flavor, which makes them an excellent substitute for lima beans in soups and salads.
Cannellini beans have a firm texture, so in order to acquire the softer texture of the lima beans, you will have to add some time to prepare them.
4. Edamame Beans
Edamame beans are quite simply soya beans. Harvested when it’s immature and still tender green makes edamame beans a young version of soybeans.
These beans have a naturally sweet, nutty flavor and are served fresh. They are often steamed while still encased in their pod. You can substitute them for lima beans in salads and stir-fries.
They have a smoother texture than lima beans. So, try not to overcook them because they may become mushy.
5. Fava Beans
As they have a comparable texture and flavor to lima beans, fava beans are the closest substitute to lime beans.
Fava beans can be eaten raw and are used in various foods, from succotash to bean stews, due to their buttery and nutty flavor.
Fava beans are slightly starch and have a milder taste. Although they are a great substitute for lima beans in salads and soups, they are often served as a side dish.
It might interest you to know Lima Beans Vs Fava Beans: 8 Key Differences
Navy beans are small, oval-shaped white beans. They are mild-flavored beans packed with fiber and protein. They are a healthy choice in recipes that call for lima beans.
Navy beans have a distinctive taste comparable to lima beans, so they collaborate well as substitutes for soups and dips.
7. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are an excellent lima bean substitute if you’re preparing food for picky eaters who dislike dishes with strong bean tastes.
It’s vital to know chickpeas have a stronger texture than lima beans, so if you’re looking for a broth that dissolves in your mouth, it is not the substitute to use.
It’s also ideal not to overcook the chickpeas, as they rapidly become bitter.
8. Quinoa
Quinoa is often described as a “supergrain, and is becoming increasingly popular due to its many health benefits. It is a gluten-free alternative to lima beans.
Quinoa is delicious in salads and stews. Even though quinoa soaks up liquid, it may not produce the desired results when used in soups.
Quinoa does not have the same flavor or texture as lima beans, but it will complement any recipe to which it is added.
9. Marrow Beans
Marrow beans are the nicest options in any recipe that calls for limas. They have a creamy consistency and are small white beans, comparable to great northern beans. These beans are renowned for having a mild, bacon-like flavor and meaty texture.
Marrow beans are delicious on their own or in dishes. They are also a popular component in Mediterranean cuisine.
10. Couscous
Couscous is a form of pasta made from a processed grain product made from little balls of semolina. It tends to have a chewier texture and a nuttier flavor. It is primarily small pasta balls traditionally served with stew on top.
Couscous is not cooked in the same way as many other substitutes. You’ll be fine if you simmer it in water for a few minutes. Couscous is an excellent substitute for lima beans in stews and salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use in place of lima beans in succotash?
Fava beans are an excellent substitute for lima beans. They have identical taste and texture to lima beans. These beans are an easy addition to succotash.
Are Northern and lima beans the same?
No, Northern beans are different from lima beans! They are known for their mild, nutty flavor and softer texture. They are not similar beans because they vary greatly in size and flavor.
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Conclusion
Lima beans are among the most flavorful and tender beans you could use in your meals. Some substitutes may be healthier or even taste better than lima beans, this guide says it all. We provided the best lima beans substitutes and how they differ from lima beans.
Now you know the viable substitutes for Lima beans, you no longer have to worry when you can’t get any lima beans for your recipe.
Do have a great experience substituting your lima beans.