Ingredients

- Dried Lima Beans: 1 pound (Great Northern or Large White Lima Beans recommended). Dried lima beans are the heart of this recipe, providing a blank canvas for absorbing flavors and transforming into a creamy, tender delight. For the best results, opt for Great Northern or Large White Lima Beans. These varieties are known for their creamy texture and mild, slightly nutty flavor. You can find dried lima beans in most grocery stores, typically in the bean aisle. Ensure the beans are fresh and haven’t passed their expiration date for optimal cooking and flavor. Using dried beans is not only more economical but also allows for better flavor development compared to canned beans.

- Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: 6 cups (low-sodium recommended). Broth is the cooking liquid for the lima beans in the Instant Pot, infusing them with savory flavor and aiding in the pressure cooking process. Vegetable broth is ideal for a vegetarian or vegan version, while chicken broth adds a richer, more savory depth. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level of the dish, allowing you to season to taste later. You can also use homemade broth for an even more flavorful result. The amount of broth is crucial for proper pressure cooking; too little liquid can lead to a burn notice, while too much can result in a watery dish.

- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Onion forms the aromatic base of the dish, contributing sweetness, depth, and savory notes as it cooks alongside the lima beans. Yellow onions are a versatile choice, providing a balanced flavor that complements the beans without overpowering them. Dice the onion into roughly equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Sautéing the onion briefly before pressure cooking (optional but recommended) further enhances its flavor and adds a layer of complexity to the dish.

- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced. Garlic is a flavor powerhouse, adding pungent, savory, and slightly sweet notes to the lima beans. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference, adding more for a bolder garlic flavor. Similar to onions, sautéing the garlic briefly with the onion (optional) intensifies its aroma and flavor.

- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (optional, for sautéing). Olive oil is used for sautéing the onion and garlic (optional step), adding richness and flavor to the base of the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is a good choice for its fruity flavor and health benefits. If you skip the sautéing step, you can omit the olive oil.

- Bay Leaf: 1-2 bay leaves. Bay leaves contribute a subtle, slightly floral, and tea-like aroma to the lima beans. They add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Bay leaves are typically removed before serving, as they are not meant to be eaten.

- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Dried thyme is a classic herb that pairs beautifully with beans, adding earthy, slightly lemony, and aromatic notes. Thyme complements the mild flavor of lima beans and enhances the savory profile of the dish. If fresh thyme is available, you can use 2-3 sprigs instead, removing them before serving.

- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste. Salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Season generously, starting with the sautéed vegetables (if using) and then adjusting to taste after pressure cooking. Freshly ground black pepper provides a more pungent and aromatic flavor than pre-ground pepper.

- Optional: Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth and warmth to the lima beans, enhancing their savory flavor and adding a layer of complexity. It complements the earthy notes of the beans and herbs beautifully. If you enjoy smoky flavors, smoked paprika is a wonderful addition.

- Optional: Fresh Parsley, chopped: For garnish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the finished dish. Chopped parsley is a classic garnish that brightens up the presentation and adds a touch of freshness.

By selecting these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you are setting the stage for creating delicious and creamy Instant Pot Lima Beans that are sure to become a new favorite side dish or vegetarian main course.

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Instructions

Step 1: Optional Sautéing (Active Time: 5-7 minutes, Optional)

1. Press Sauté Button: Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot and select “Normal” or “Medium” heat. Allow the Instant Pot to heat up for a minute or two.

1. Add Olive Oil: Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot pot. Once the oil is heated and shimmering, add the chopped onion.

1. Sauté Onion: Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

1. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

1. Press Cancel: Press the “Cancel” button to stop the sauté function.

(Note: If you prefer to skip the sautéing step for even faster preparation, you can proceed directly to Step 2. The sautéing step enhances the flavor but is not strictly necessary.)

Step 2: Adding Ingredients and Pressure Cooking (Active Time: 5 minutes, Passive Time: Pressure Cooking & Natural Pressure Release)

1. Rinse Lima Beans (Optional): While rinsing dried beans was once considered essential, modern practices often make it unnecessary. However, if you prefer, you can rinse the dried lima beans in a colander under cold running water to remove any debris or dust. This step is optional.

1. Add All Ingredients to Instant Pot: Add the dried lima beans (rinsed or unrinsed), vegetable broth or chicken broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using) to the Instant Pot pot.

1. Stir to Combine: Stir all the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed and the beans are submerged in the broth.

1. Secure Lid and Set Valve: Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the sealing ring is properly in place. Turn the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position.

1. Select Pressure Cook/Manual Setting: Press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button on your Instant Pot. Set the cooking time to 25 minutes at high pressure.

1. Pressure Cook: The Instant Pot will now begin the pressure cooking process. It will first go through a preheating phase (coming to pressure), which may take about 10-15 minutes. Once at pressure, it will cook for the set 25 minutes.

Step 3: Natural Pressure Release (Passive Time: Natural Pressure Release)

1. Natural Pressure Release (NPR): After the 25-minute pressure cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 20 minutes. This means you do nothing and let the pressure gradually release on its own. Natural pressure release is crucial for cooking beans as it prevents them from bursting and ensures a creamy texture.

1. Manual Pressure Release (MPR) (Optional): After the 20-minute natural pressure release, carefully turn the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure manually. Be cautious of the steam escaping. Wait until the float valve drops completely before attempting to open the lid.

Step 4: Finishing and Serving (Active Time: 5 minutes)

1. Open Lid Carefully: Once the pressure is fully released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the Instant Pot lid, tilting it away from you to avoid any remaining steam.

1. Remove Bay Leaves: Remove and discard the bay leaves from the cooked lima beans.

1. Check for Doneness: Check the lima beans for doneness. They should be tender, creamy, and easily mashed with a fork. If they are not quite tender enough, you can put the lid back on, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook for another 5-10 minutes at high pressure, followed by a natural pressure release. However, 25 minutes of pressure cooking with a 20-minute NPR is usually sufficient for perfectly cooked lima beans.

1. Season to Taste: Taste the lima beans and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt to enhance the flavors.

1. Mash Some Beans (Optional): For an even creamier texture, you can use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to lightly mash some of the lima beans against the side of the Instant Pot pot. This releases starch and thickens the cooking liquid, creating a creamier consistency.

1. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Instant Pot Lima Beans hot as a side dish or vegetarian main course.

Following these step-by-step instructions will guide you to perfectly cooked, creamy, and flavorful Instant Pot Lima Beans every time. The Instant Pot makes this dish incredibly easy and quick, transforming dried lima beans into a delicio

Nutrition

Serving Size: one normal portion
Calories: 200-250 calories
Fiber: 7-10 grams
Protein: 10-15 g