Christmas Lima Bean

Rancho Gordo Christmas Lima Bean

Christmas Lima Beans are intriguing variation on the traditional Lima, thought to have originated in Peru (hence the name Lima). They have a distinct chestnut texture and (according to some) flavor, but it’s so subtle that’s up for debate. In Italy, you’ll find them as Fagioli del Papa or Pope’s Beans. Also known stateside as Chestnut Lima and sometimes Calico Beans. Whatever you call them, they’ve done a great deal to help fix the bad reputation of traditional Lima beans.

If you grew up thinking you hated Limas, you owe it to yourself to give this one a try.

Cooking Suggestions: Soups, salads, casseroles

Size: 1 Lb Bag

From The Rancho Gordo Kitchen: There’s a slightly grainy texture to this bean, but you can keep cooking past that and they end up being creamy. Christmas Limas can stand up to strong flavors, like a chile sauce or curry and pair particularly well with ingredients with a lot of umami, such as mushrooms and cheeses. Steve made a memorable meal once with Christmas Limas cooked in a Gorgonzola sauce!