Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole

Name: Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons gochujang; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head of escarole, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delicious and comforting dish featuring creamy butter beans and slightly bitter escarole, enhanced with the unique flavor of gochujang.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:51:18.178Z

This dish brings together the creaminess of butter beans with the slight bitterness of escarole, all tied together with the spicy and savory notes of gochujang. It’s perfect as a main course or a hearty side.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich umami flavor from gochujang
Creamy butter beans provide a satisfying texture
A unique twist on traditional bean dishes
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight meal

      

The Magic of Gochujang

Gochujang is a Korean fermented red chili paste that adds a unique depth of flavor to dishes. Its sweet, spicy, and savory notes create a complex profile that elevates even the simplest recipes. When combined with creamy butter beans, it transforms this dish into a comforting yet exciting meal that pleases the palate.

Incorporating gochujang into your cooking not only introduces an exotic flavor but also provides several health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and known for its metabolism-boosting properties, this ingredient is a great addition to a balanced diet. Plus, its versatility means you can explore it in various recipes beyond just this one.

Why Butter Beans?

Butter beans, also known as lima beans, are renowned for their creamy texture and nutty flavor. They're packed with protein and fiber, making them a perfect choice for a hearty meal. Their ability to absorb flavors beautifully makes them an ideal companion for the spicy gochujang in this recipe.

Moreover, butter beans are incredibly easy to prepare, especially when using canned varieties. This means you can whip up a satisfying dish in no time, perfect for busy weeknights. Their nutritional profile, combined with their delightful texture, makes them a staple in many healthy diets.

Escarole: The Perfect Green

Escarole is a versatile leafy green that adds both flavor and nutrition to your dishes. Its slightly bitter taste pairs perfectly with the rich, umami profile of gochujang butter beans. When sautéed, escarole wilts beautifully and softens, creating a delectable contrast with the creamy beans.

This leafy green is also rich in vitamins A and K, making it a great addition to your meals. Whether you enjoy it raw in salads or cooked in dishes like this one, escarole brings a unique taste and numerous health benefits that can enhance your overall wellness.

Ingredients

For the Gochujang Butter Beans

2 cans butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons gochujang
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Escarole

1 head of escarole, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon

Enjoy this dish warm, and feel free to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch!

Instructions

Prepare the Butter Beans

In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the butter beans and gochujang, cooking until heated through.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Sauté the Escarole

In another skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped escarole and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté until the escarole is wilted, about 5 minutes.

Squeeze lemon juice over the top and mix well.

Combine and Serve

Serve the gochujang butter beans on a plate, topped with the sautéed escarole. Enjoy your flavorful dish!

This dish pairs well with rice or crusty bread.

Serving Suggestions

This Gochujang Butter Beans with Escarole dish can be served as a main course or as a hearty side. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures. A side of crusty bread or steamed rice would also complement the dish beautifully, allowing you to savor every bit of the sauce.

For a more festive presentation, consider garnishing the dish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor that can elevate the overall dining experience.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors will continue to meld together, making your leftovers even more delicious the next day.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from becoming too thick. Enjoy your easy-to-reheat meal that provides comfort and flavor on a busy day!

Variations and Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences! You can add protein such as diced tofu or shrimp to the butter bean mixture for added substance. Experimenting with different greens, like spinach or kale, can also introduce new flavors and textures.

If you want to adjust the spice level, start with a smaller amount of gochujang and gradually add more until you reach your desired heat. This flexibility ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy this delicious dish according to their taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can substitute butter beans with cannellini or navy beans.

→ Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang has a mild heat level, but you can adjust to your taste.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beans and escarole separately and combine them before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish goes well with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.