Braised Butter Beans with Wild Garlic and Goat’s Curd

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Braised Butter Beans with Wild Garlic and Goat’s Curd

Serves: 4P

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried butter beans – soaked overnight in 3 cups of cold water.
  • 2 cloves wild garlic – finely chopped.
  • ½ cup goat’s curd – stirred to a smooth consistency.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil – extra virgin, for braising and finishing.
  • Salt and pepper – to taste.

Optional Ingredients

  • Chopped parsley – for garnish.
  • Lemon wedges – to squeeze over before serving.
  • Crumbled bacon – cooked until crisp
  • Pantry Staples
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Butter Beans

Soaking: Rinse and drain the butter beans. Soak them in cold water overnight (at least 8 hours).

Braising:Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).

Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot.

Add 1 tbsp olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper.

Pour enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches.

Cover the pot with a lid and braise in the oven for 1.5–2 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the beans remain submerged. They should be tender but not mushy.

2. Sauté the Wild Garlic

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.

Add the finely chopped wild garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Avoid browning to retain its fresh flavor.

3. Assemble the Dish

Drain the braised beans, reserving a small amount of the cooking liquid (about ¼ cup).

Gently mix the beans with the sautéed garlic and reserved liquid to coat them.

Add the goat’s curd and fold it in gently, ensuring the beans remain intact.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Dressing and Presentation

Garnish

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Drizzle with a bit more olive oil for added richness.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors

Serving Suggestions

Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy texture.

Offer lemon wedges on the side for individual preferences.

Optional: Scatter crisp crumbled bacon or an extra dollop of goat’s curd on top.

Season and Pairing

Season

This dish is best enjoyed in spring, during the peak of wild garlic season, but can be adapted year-round using regular garlic or garlic scapes.

Recommended Drink Pairing

Wine: A crisp, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.

Non-alcoholic: A sparkling elderflower drink or chilled herbal tea complements the fresh, earthy flavors.

Variations and Nutrition

Variations

  • Swap butter beans with cannellini beans or chickpeas for variety.
  • Use regular garlic if wild garlic is unavailable; sauté with a pinch of chili flakes for added heat.
  • Add diced ham or cooked chorizo for a heartier dish.
  • Include fresh spinach or arugula for a pop of color and extra greens.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 20g
  • Fat: 20g

Conclusion

This Braised Butter Beans with Wild Garlic and Goat’s Curd recipe combines creamy, tender beans with the vibrant flavor of wild garlic and the tangy richness of goat’s curd. Perfect for a light springtime meal or as a comforting side dish, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing option. Get creative with garnishes and enjoy this dish with a refreshing beverage for a memorable dining

 

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