What's the Best Substitute for Butter Beans?
Whether you're out of Butter Beans or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Large, creamy white beans with mild, buttery flavor, used in cooking and salads In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for butter beans are lima beans, cannellini beans, or navy beans, depending on the use.
Best Substitutes for Butter Beans
Lima Beans
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- salads
- soups
- stews
Description
Similar bean with different size
Different size, similar flavor
Cannellini Beans
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- salads
- soups
- stews
Description
Similar bean with different size
Different size, similar flavor
Navy Beans
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- salads
- soups
- stews
Description
Similar bean with different size
Different size, similar flavor
Great Northern Beans
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- salads
- soups
- stews
Description
Similar bean with different size
Different size, similar flavor
Chickpeas
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- salads
- soups
- stews
Description
Similar legume with different source
Different source, similar texture
White Kidney Beans
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- salads
- soups
- stews
Description
Similar bean with different size
Different size, similar flavor
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Butter Beans, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Butter beans add mild, buttery flavor to dishes
Butter beans can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
Butter beans pairs well with vegetables, herbs, and spices
Butter beans works well in soups and stews
Butter beans can be used to make succotash and cassoulet
Store butter beans in a cool, dry place
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications