Instant Pot Lima Beans (Butter Beans Pressure Cooker Recipe)

Step 1

Rinse and pick through the dry lima beans and put them in a large food-safe container. Cover them with 1-2 inches of water and let them sit out for 8-12 hours (or overnight) to soak. Cover the beans while soaking to keep out dust.

Step 2

After soaking, drain the beans well and pick out any loose skins. Put the beans in the Instant Pot along with the broth, garlic, bay leaf, salt (if using), and pepper.

Step 3

Put the lid on the Instant Pot and close the steam release valve.

Step 4

Option 1: Pressure cook dry lima beans for 25 minutes on high (“beans chili” setting). Then let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before carefully opening the pressure valve. This gets you mushy beans that are creamy like mashed potatoes.Option 2: For beans that hold their shape, pressure cook for 20 minutes on high (“beans chili” setting). Quick release the pressure.

Step 5

Open the pot once the pressure has finished releasing and remove the bay leaf. You can use these beans with the broth as a base for a yummy soup. Alternatively, you can drain the beans before using them as an entrée or side.

Step 6

To use the optional toppings, drain the beans and stir in the caramelized onions. Top with cooked, crumbled bacon and chives. Enjoy!

Step 7

Note: Old lima beans are more likely to keep their shape (and may need a longer cooking time). The hardness of the water used in the broth can also impact how the beans turn out.