Bean, Butter from France

Butter Beans refers to yellow beans (haricots beurre), a tender variety of French green bean with a bright golden-yellow colour. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavour and a delicate, buttery taste, becoming soft and melting when cooked while retaining a light, pleasant bite.

Butter beans are sweeter and less grassy than regular green beans, with a subtle creamy note. They pair especially well with lemon, olive oil, shallots, herbs, toasted nuts, or a knob of butter.

How to cook them

• Rinse and trim the ends.
• Boil in salted water for 9–12 minutes, until tender but still slightly crisp.
• Alternatively, steam for 12–15 minutes to preserve their colour and delicate flavour.
• For extra flavour, sauté the cooked beans briefly with butter, garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
• Serve them as a simple side dish, or add them to salads, pasta, or vegetable stir-fries.

Keep them in the refrigerator, loosely wrapped or in a perforated bag, and cook within a few days for the best texture. Wash and trim just before cooking, do not eat them raw.