Spicy Filipino-American Style Lima Beans Stew

Ingredients

While the original Peruvian picante de habas traditionally uses fava beans, this adaptation replaces them with lima beans, which are more commonly found in Filipino-American cuisine. Additionally, the Filipino-American version incorporates a spicier kick by adding chili peppers and other aromatic spices to enhance the flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Picante de habas, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) dried lima beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) dried lima beans, soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 red chili peppers, sliced 2 red chili peppers, sliced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 6g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 15g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked lima beans.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, sliced chili peppers, paprika, cumin powder, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. 5.
   Add the soaked lima beans to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth.
6. 6.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour or until the lima beans are tender.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Serve the Spicy Lima Beans Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lima beans — Soaking the dried lima beans overnight helps to reduce the cooking time and ensures they cook evenly. Make sure to drain and rinse them before using in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add more chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
• Adjust the spiciness according to your preference by reducing or increasing the amount of chili peppers.
• Serve the stew with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the nutritional value.

Serving advice

Serve the Spicy Lima Beans Stew as a main course, accompanied by steamed rice or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Spicy Lima Beans Stew in a deep bowl, allowing the vibrant red color of the stew to shine through. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for an appealing touch.