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lima bean

dag lima beans

GrainsYear-round; dried dag lima beans are available throughout the year as a shelf-stable commodity. Fresh varieties are seasonal in their growing regions, typically harvested in late summer to early fall.

Rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and sustained energy. Contains significant amounts of folate, iron, and magnesium, with notable antioxidant properties.

About

Dag lima beans are a variety of lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus), a legume native to Central and South America. These beans are characterized by their small to medium size, cream-colored seed coat with distinctive dark markings or "dag" patterns that resemble dappling or speckles. The dag variety typically has a slightly sweet, creamy flavor and a tender texture when cooked. Lima beans have been cultivated for thousands of years and are botanically categorized as dicots within the Fabaceae family. The dag pattern is a natural genetic variation found in certain cultivars, particularly those developed in African and Asian agricultural regions.

Culinary Uses

Dag lima beans are used similarly to other lima bean varieties, primarily in stews, curries, rice dishes, and bean salads across African, Asian, and Caribbean cuisines. In West African cooking, they are commonly prepared in one-pot dishes with vegetables and spices. The beans are also ground into flour for use in baking and as a thickening agent. Due to their creamy texture when cooked, they work well in purees, soups, and as a vegetable accompaniment to grains. They should be soaked before cooking and require 45-60 minutes of simmering to reach tenderness.