Lima beans come from South America (and take their name from the city of Lima), and this simple dip is one of the best ways to showcase their wonderful flavor. Lima beans have lots of flavor for a bean, after all - where I grew up we called them "butter beans" because they're so creamy and tasty. (Butter beans are technically a smaller variety than the typical South American lima bean, but basically the same).
This hummus-like dip makes a great substitute for guacamole when avocados are scarce. It's delicious on nachos, spread on bread, or as a topping for a vegetable pizza.Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 1 1/2 cups dip.
Ingredients:
- 1 16 ounce bag of frozen lima beans, or about 2 cups shelled fresh beans
- 1 packet Sazón Goya seasoning, with saffron
- 1 cup cilantro leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lima beans and the packet of Sazón Goya seasoning and return to a boil. Simmer beans for 8-10 minutes, or until desired tenderness.
- Drain beans well and let cool for 5 minutes. Add beans to a food processor with 2 tablespoons olive oil and the cilantro.
- Process beans and cilantro for 30 seconds or so. Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, cumin and process until smoooth, adding more olive oil if mixture seems too dry. Taste for seasoning and add more salt, lime juice, or pepper to taste.
- Serve with chips or vegetables for dipping, or on sandwiches.
- Store dip in the refrigerator, in a lidded container, covered with a thin layer of olive oil. (Dip keeps for 3-4 days).
