Finding and Buying Fordhook Lima Beans: The Ultimate Guide

The buttery, rich flavor of Fordhook lima beans makes them a favorite for many home cooks and vegetable lovers. But finding these plump, green beans in stores and markets can sometimes be a challenge. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about locating and purchasing top-quality Fordhook lima beans.

What are Fordhook Lima Beans?

Fordhook lima beans are a variety of lima bean, Phaseolus lunatus They are named after the Fordhook Farm in Pennsylvania where they were originally cultivated

Some key features that distinguish Fordhooks from other lima bean varieties

• Large size – Fordhooks are bigger and plumper than most other limas

• Bright green color – They have a vibrant, fresh green hue.

• Thick skin – The pod is sturdy and stays intact when cooked.

• Mild, nutty flavor – Their taste is more delicate and less starchy than standard limas.

• Excellent frozen – Fordhooks freeze exceptionally well compared to other beans.

These characteristics make Fordhooks a top choice for many recipes calling for plump, tender lima beans. Their versatility allows them to shine in soups, stews, salads, side dishes and more.

Where to Buy Fordhook Lima Beans

Farmer’s Markets

Farmer’s markets are a great place to find freshly harvested Fordhook limas in season. Ask vendors if they have Fordhooks or search for signs advertising them. The peak season is late summer through early fall.

Specialty Grocers

Well-stocked natural foods stores and gourmet grocers will often carry Fordhook limas both frozen and in refrigerated cold cases. Check the freezer aisle as well as fresh vegetable displays.

Online Stores

Several online stores offer Fordhook lima beans:

• Walmart – Carries 24 oz bags of frozen Fordhook limas from Pictsweet Farms.

• Amazon – Sells dried, canned, and frozen Fordhooks from brands like Melissa’s and Goya.

• Peapod – Lists fresh, in-pod Fordhooks when in season.

• Farmbox Direct – Specializes in fresh, seasonal produce shipped directly from farms.

Food Co-ops and CSAs

Co-ops focused on local, organic food may source Fordhooks from regional farmers. Ask about availability. CSAs also frequently offer Fordhook limas among their seasonal produce boxes.

Regular Grocery Stores

While availability is hit or miss, major grocery store chains may stock Fordhook limas at times. Check the frozen section as this offers better odds than finding fresh.

What to Look for When Buying

To get the best quality Fordhook lima beans, watch for:

• Vibrant, green color – Avoid beans with brown spots or yellowing.

• Smooth, firm pods – Pass on pods that are wrinkled, mushy or split open.

• “Best by” date – For frozen beans, choose those with a more distant date.

• Proper storage/handling – For fresh beans, inspect for signs of bruising or wet pods.

• Reputable brand – With canned or frozen, go with known, trusted producers.

• GF labeling – If avoiding gluten, verify beans are certified gluten-free.

How to Store Fordhook Lima Beans

To maintain freshness after buying Fordhooks:

• Place fresh beans loosely in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer. Use within 5 days.

• Leave frozen beans frozen until ready to use. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

• Store dried beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Use within a year.

• Keep canned beans in a cool, dry spot. Consume within 1 year for optimal quality.

• Once cooked, refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days or freeze for longer duration.

With proper handling, Fordhook lima beans retain their signature plump, buttery texture and mild nutty taste. Their large size and vivid green color make them stand out in any dish. Follow these tips to seek out top-quality Fordhooks and enjoy their distinctive flavor. Happy bean hunting!