Print

Butter Beans with Caramelized Onions

Butter Beans with Caramelized Onions
Print Recipe

Butter Beans with Caramelized Onions is a comforting and elegant vegetarian dish that combines the creamy texture of tender butter beans with the deep, sweet flavor of slow-cooked caramelized onions. This nutritious recipe is packed with protein and fiber, easy to customize, and perfect as a hearty side or main dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried butter beans (or 2 cups canned butter beans, drained and rinsed)
  • 2 large sweet onions (yellow or Vidalia), thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Fresh Herbs

  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley, for garnish

Optional Variations

  • Crushed red pepper or chopped chili, for a spicy kick
  • Fresh rosemary or sage, finely chopped
  • Smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke
  • Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese
  • Crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Butter Beans: If using dried butter beans, soak them overnight then cook in boiling water until tender and creamy, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, drain and rinse canned butter beans thoroughly to reduce excess salt.
  2. Slice the Onions Thinly: Peel and slice the sweet onions into even, thin strips to ensure uniform caramelization and a beautiful golden-brown color.
  3. Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over low to medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir frequently, cooking for 30 to 40 minutes until they become soft, deeply golden, and sweet in flavor, releasing their natural sugars.
  4. Add Garlic and Seasonings: During the last few minutes of caramelizing the onions, stir in the minced garlic along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook briefly to develop flavor without burning the garlic.
  5. Mix Beans and Onions Together: Gently fold the cooked butter beans into the warm caramelized onions, allowing the flavors to meld together fully. Adjust seasoning to taste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Notes

  • Patience is essential when caramelizing onions; cooking low and slow avoids bitterness and brings out perfect sweetness.
  • Using fresh or well-rinsed canned butter beans improves the creamy texture and keeps excess salt in check.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan with onions to ensure even browning and flavor development.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning gradually, especially when using salted canned beans.
  • Stir in fresh herbs just before serving to preserve their bright flavor.
  • This dish keeps well refrigerated up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition

Keywords: Butter Beans, Caramelized Onions, Vegetarian, Comfort Food, Healthy, Easy Side Dish, Protein Rich, Fiber Rich

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/butter-beans-with-caramelized-onions/