Alongside the chickpeas and lentils, Nonna always has a tin of butter beans in the cupboard. Bigger, creamier and every bit as impressive, butter beans are one of Nonna’s best-kept cupboard secrets
Butter beans do not get the attention chickpeas do, but Nonna rates them just as highly, especially once the weather turns and a butter bean stew or warming pasta dish like Nonna’s Gnocchi with butter beans alla vodka is what’s needed. And when it’s hot outside, Nonna loves a marinated courgette and butter bean salad – they’re a very versatile bean.
What Makes Butter Beans Different?
Butter beans are larger and softer than chickpeas, with a texture closer to a good potato once cooked. That creaminess is what makes them so good in a stew, where they half hold their shape and half melt into the sauce around them.
Nonna’s Tips for Butter Beans
Nonna’s Tip 1: Rinse Them First
As with any tinned pulse, Nonna rinses butter beans under cold water before using them, whether they are going into a stew or a salad.
Nonna’s Tip 2: Handle Them Gently
Butter beans are softer than chickpeas or lentils and break apart easily. Nonna adds them towards the end of cooking and stirs with a light hand rather than vigorously.
Nonna’s Tip 3: Let Them Sit in a Good Stew
Butter beans are built for slow, tomato-based stews like Nonna’s butter bean stew, where they soak up rich tomato flavours while bringing their own creamy texture to the dish.
Nonna’s Tip 4: Mash a Few for a Creamier Finish
Nonna will sometimes mash a spoonful of butter beans against the side of the pan towards the end of cooking. It thickens the stew naturally and gives it a creamier finish, with no cream in sight.
Nonna’s Tip 5: Pair with Rosemary or Sage
Butter beans have a mild, buttery flavour that stands up well to stronger herbs. Rosemary or sage, warmed through in olive oil before the beans go in, is one of Nonna’s favourite pairings.
Nonna’s Tip 6: Finish with Something Sharp
A squeeze of lemon or splash of vinegar is Nonna’s secret for bringing butter bean dishes to life.
Enjoying Nonna’s Tips? Try Nonna’s butter bean stew, or find out more about Napolina butter beans today, or read Nonna’s guide to pulses.
