Some dishes prove that simple ingredients can create a world of flavor, and these Creamy Miso Butter Beans are a perfect example. This is a one-pan wonder that takes humble butter beans and transforms them into a rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying meal. With a velvety sauce infused with umami-rich miso and a hint of fresh herbs, this dish is a true showstopper that’s also surprisingly easy to make.
Why This Recipe is a Favorite
This recipe is a favorite because it’s a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create a meal that’s deeply satisfying and full of complex flavors. The secret lies in the miso, which provides a depth of savory, umami flavor that makes the creamy sauce truly addictive. The butter beans simmer beautifully, soaking up all the deliciousness, and the fresh scallions add a wonderful texture and brightness. It’s a healthy, protein-packed, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or even a special occasion.
Ingredients
Here is a complete list of ingredients for these delicious Creamy Miso Butter Beans, expanding on your provided partial list:
- For the Beans:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can butter beans, rinsed and drained (or other white beans)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Garnish & Serving:
- Fresh scallions, chopped
- Crusty bread or cooked rice
Swaps and Notes
- Beans: Butter beans are perfect for this recipe due to their creamy texture, but you can also use other white beans like cannellini beans or navy beans.
- Miso Paste: White or yellow miso paste is recommended for its milder flavor. Red miso is stronger and saltier, so use it sparingly if you prefer.
- Creaminess: Full-fat coconut milk gives a rich, dairy-free creaminess and a subtle sweetness that is fantastic. Heavy cream or a dairy-free cream substitute also work perfectly.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth provides a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Lemon Juice: A little fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and cuts through the richness.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a little heat.
Steps for the Recipe
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the white or yellow miso paste and a few tablespoons of the chicken or vegetable broth until a smooth paste forms. Add the remaining broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the miso paste mixture until it’s completely dissolved.
- Simmer the Beans: Add the rinsed and drained butter beans to the simmering broth. Stir in the full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the Creamy Miso Butter Beans immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and a side of crusty bread for dipping or over cooked rice.
Tips for Success
- Whisk the Miso: Whisking the miso paste with a little broth before adding it to the skillet prevents it from clumping and ensures a smooth sauce.
- Simmer Gently: Don’t let the sauce come to a rolling boil, as this can cause the miso to lose some of its flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots, garlic, and scallions make a world of difference in the final flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. The miso paste is salty, so be mindful of the added salt.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Creamy Miso Butter Beans are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a few simple sides. A side of toasted crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce is a must! They are also delicious served over cooked rice or a side of steamed green beans.
For other hearty and flavorful meals, consider:
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
- This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover Creamy Miso Butter Beans store beautifully. The flavors will continue to deepen overnight. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to thin the sauce if it has thickened too much.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you appreciate easy, satisfying, and delicious one-pan meals, you’ll find more to love on ChefManiac.com:
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort
- This Big Family Banana Pudding is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd
- The Slippery Drank is My Favorite Sweet Sipper for Dessert-Inspired Vibes
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Miso Butter Beans are a testament to how simple ingredients and bold flavors can create a truly unforgettable meal. It’s a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, perfect for a cozy night in. Give this recipe a try and get ready for a new favorite weeknight dinner!
What are your go-to bean-based recipes? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow ChefManiac.com for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes!
Creamy Miso Butter Beans: An Umami-Rich Weeknight Delight
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup canned butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the butter beans to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the garlic powder and miso paste, mixing well to coat the beans.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the coconut milk or heavy cream and fresh lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
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