Name: Creamy Curried Butter Beans for a Cozy Vegan Night In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil (Substitute with olive oil or vegetable oil if needed.); 2 Shallots, finely chopped (Can be replaced with yellow onion if necessary.); 3 cloves Garlic, finely chopped (Fresh garlic is preferred for best flavor.); 1 thumb-sized piece Fresh Ginger, finely chopped (Ground ginger can be used in a pinch.); 400 g Tinned Butter Beans, with water (Substitutes include chickpeas or cannellini beans.); 70 g Spinach, chopped (Kale or Swiss chard can be used for variation.); 250 ml Coconut Milk, thick canned (Light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat version.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Puree (Fresh tomatoes can be used if pureed well.); 1 tablespoon Curry Powder (Use a mild blend for less heat or homemade for a customized flavor.); ½ Lime, squeezed (Lemon can work as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Optional, for heat.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the inviting scent of sautéed garlic and ginger wafted through the air, transporting me to far-off markets where vibrant spices danced together. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Curried Butter Beans—a quick meal that’s perfect for any busy weeknight. This dish is not only a delightful vegan comfort food made creamy with rich coconut milk, but it also transforms humble pantry staples into a warm, satisfying experience. In just 20 minutes, you can create a comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether served over fluffy rice or piled on toasted sourdough, this recipe is sure to become a repeat contender in your dinner lineup. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this taste of home? Let’s dive in!

Why are Curried Butter Beans a must-try?

Quick, Flavorful Meal: With just 20 minutes needed, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Creamy Comfort: Rich coconut milk transforms every bite into a warm, satisfying experience. Nutrient-Packed: Butter beans and spinach provide essential protein and vitamins. Versatile Options: Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste, whether using chickpeas or adding diced veggies. Pantry Staples: Create something amazing from what you already have—no need for complicated grocery trips! Make this dish tonight and discover a new family favorite, just like our Gooey Butter Pecan dessert!

Curried Butter Beans Ingredients

For the Base
• Coconut Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics; substitute with olive oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• Shallots (2, finely chopped) – Provide a mild, sweet onion flavor; can be replaced with yellow onion if necessary.
• Garlic (3 cloves, finely chopped) – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic is preferred for best flavor.
• Fresh Ginger (thumb-sized piece, finely chopped) – Provides a fresh, spicy zing; ground ginger can be used in a pinch but may alter the flavor.
• Tinned Butter Beans (400g, with water) – The main ingredient providing a creamy, hearty base; substitutes include chickpeas or cannellini beans.
• Spinach (70g, chopped) – Adds color and nutrients like fiber and iron; kale or Swiss chard can be used for variation.
• Coconut Milk (250ml, thick canned) – Adds creaminess and a slight sweetness, essential for the curry texture; light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat version.
• Tomato Puree (2 tablespoons) – Adds acidity and depth of flavor; fresh tomatoes can be used if pureed well.
• Curry Powder (1 tablespoon) – The soul of the dish, providing warmth and spiciness; use a mild blend for less heat or homemade curry powder for a customized flavor.

For Topping
• Lime (½, squeezed) – Adds brightness and acidity; lemon can work as an alternative.
• Chili Flakes (1 teaspoon) – Optional, for heat; fresh chopped chilies can be added for extra spice.

Enjoy creating your Curried Butter Beans dish that not only comforts but captivates!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Curried Butter Beans

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the minced garlic and freshly chopped ginger, continuing to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and golden, creating a delightful aroma for your Curried Butter Beans.

Step 2: Build the Base
Add 2 tablespoons of tomato puree to the pan, along with a splash of water to loosen the mixture. Stir well to combine, then sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of curry powder, allowing the spices to coat the shallots and aromatics. Next, incorporate the drained butter beans (keeping a little of the water) into the mixture, gently folding them in until they are evenly coated with the fragrant base.

Step 3: Add Coconut Milk
Pour in 250ml of thick canned coconut milk, stirring gently to incorporate it into the sauce. Season with a pinch of salt, then let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and the sauce starts to thicken slightly, enveloping the butter beans in a creamy embrace.

Step 4: Finish the Dish
Stir the chopped spinach into the pan, allowing it to wilt and blend into the sauce. Squeeze the juice of half a lime over the mixture and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, if desired. Allow the dish to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all flavors meld beautifully together in your Curried Butter Beans.

Step 5: Serve
Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! Spoon generous portions of the creamy Curried Butter Beans over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or alongside crunchy toasted sourdough bread. A squeeze of fresh lime on top will enhance the flavors and brighten your meal, making it an inviting, comforting dish.

What to Serve with 20-Minute Creamy Curried Butter Beans?

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying warmth of a comforting meal, especially when it’s bursting with rich flavors and textures.

Fluffy Rice: The perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce, offering a mild, fluffy contrast to the bold spices.
Toasted Sourdough: Its crunchy exterior and soft inside provide an excellent vehicle for your curried butter beans, making every bite delightful.
Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or cauliflower deliver a satisfying crunch and bring additional nutrients to your plate, balancing the softness of the curry.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side dish of cucumber, lime, and mint cuts through the creaminess, adding a crisp texture and brightness to your meal.
Chickpea Salad: Full of protein and fiber, this hearty salad pairs wonderfully, offering a different flavor profile that enhances the overall meal experience.
Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy accompaniment adds an exciting layer of flavor, perfectly complementing the spices of your Curried Butter Beans.
Coconut Lassi: A cool and creamy drink made with yogurt, coconut milk, and a hint of mint provides a refreshing palate cleanser.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: A velvety dessert that feels indulgent yet remains plant-based, it creates a beautifully rich ending to your wholesome meal.
Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: For something light and refreshing, this dessert rounds out the meal perfectly, keeping the tropical flavors alive and vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

These Curried Butter Beans are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base of the curry (aromatics, tomato puree, drained butter beans, and coconut milk) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container; this will deepen the flavors without sacrificing quality. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply reheat the mixture on the stove over medium heat, then stir in the chopped spinach, lime juice, and chili flakes just before serving for the freshest taste. This makes weeknight cooking a breeze, allowing you to savor comforting vegan comfort food with minimal effort!

Curried Butter Beans Customization

Feel free to make this recipe your own, adding personal touches that excite your taste buds!

Lentil Swap: Substitute butter beans for cooked lentils for a hearty twist with a nutty flavor. This variation keeps everything nutritious and adds a different texture.
Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the pan when sautéing the shallots for extra nutrition and crunch. The vibrant colors will make your dish even more inviting!
Sweet Touch: Incorporate a hint of sweetness by adding raisins or dried apricots during the simmering process, balancing the spices beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley right before serving for a delightful freshness that elevates the flavor profile. This sprinkle can make your dish feel gourmet!
Spice Level Adjustment: If you love heat, swap in fresh chopped chilies instead of chili flakes, giving your dish that extra kick. You can control the spice level to accommodate your preferences.

For more delicious recipes that let you tweak flavors to your liking, be sure to check out my Chocolate Peanut Butter bars or enjoy a slice of Butter Pecan Praline as a sweet treat!

Storage Tips for Curried Butter Beans

Fridge: Store your Curried Butter Beans in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Curried Butter Beans in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to leave space for expansion.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or more coconut milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions: If reheating from frozen, let the dish thaw overnight in the fridge before warming. Serve over fresh rice or with crusty bread for a comforting meal experience.

Expert Tips for Curried Butter Beans

Sauté Thoroughly: Make sure to sauté the aromatics until they are golden, enhancing their flavors and giving your Curried Butter Beans a deeper taste.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker curry, mash some butter beans in the sauce before adding spinach for a creamy texture.
Balance Spice Levels: Taste your curry before serving and adjust spice levels according to your preference—start with less curry powder if you’re unsure!
Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. Dried spices can dull your dish, making freshness key to deliciousness.
Storage Success: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; the flavors often improve after a day as they meld together beautifully.
Vibrant Garnish: Don’t forget to finish your dish with fresh lime and chili flakes for that zesty kick—it’s the perfect touch to elevate your meal!

Curried Butter Beans Recipe FAQs

What type of butter beans should I use?
Absolutely! Use tinned butter beans for convenience and creamy texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, chickpeas or cannellini beans also work well. They each bring a slightly different flavor and texture, but the dish will remain delicious!

How do I store leftover Curried Butter Beans?
Very! Store your Curried Butter Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently in a saucepan.

Can I freeze Curried Butter Beans?
Of course! To freeze, let the dish cool, then portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little room for expansion. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if needed for creamy goodness.

What can I do if the curry is too spicy?
No worries! If your Curried Butter Beans turned out spicier than you like, you can balance it by adding more coconut milk to the dish. This will soften the heat and enhance the creaminess. Alternatively, serve it over slightly sweet steamed rice or with a dollop of yogurt to calm the spice.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Yes! This recipe is vegan and plant-based, making it suitable for those following those dietary lifestyles. However, if you have allergies, make sure to check the labels on your coconut milk for any allergens. If you have pets, avoid feeding them anything containing garlic or onion. Always best to keep them safe!

How do I know if my shallots are fresh enough to use?
Great question! Fresh shallots should feel firm and dry, with no dark spots or mold; those are indicators they’re past their prime. If you find shallots with soft spots or an off smell, it’s best to choose a fresh one for maximum flavor in your Curried Butter Beans!