Lima Bean

A flat, light green or white colored bean with a kidney shape that has a mild flavor and soft texture. Lima Beans are available fresh in the shell, dried, frozen, and processed in the can. Fresh Lima Beans in the shell can have the beans removed by breaking the stem and pulling down to remove the string, which opens the pod so that the beans can be removed by running a finger along the inside of the pod. Fresh beans should be parboiled before using. Dried beans should be soaked over night or to reduce soaking time, bring to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes, then cover and soak for 1 hour. This bean is commonly referred to as a Calico, Madagascar, Butter or Snow bean and they are available as baby or mature beans.