Butter Bean Mash with Lemon and Vegan Cream Recipe
Introduction
Butter bean mash is a creamy, comforting side dish that’s both dairy-free and packed with flavor. It’s quick to prepare and makes a wonderful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Perfect for pairing with roasted vegetables or your favorite main course.

Ingredients
- 15 g dairy-free ‘butter’ (block margarine, such as Flora Plant Butter or Naturli Block)
- 800 g tinned butterbeans (2 x 400g tins)
- 150 ml vegetable stock (made from 150 ml boiling water + 1 tsp stock powder)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (juice only)
- 1-2 tbsp vegan cream or plain yoghurt (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the vegan butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Step 2: Drain and rinse the butterbeans thoroughly, then add them to the saucepan along with the vegetable stock. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 3: Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the mixture simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 4: Add the lemon juice and vegan cream or yoghurt if using. Blitz the mixture until very smooth using a hand blender or food processor. For an extra creamy texture, you can add a splash more vegan cream or yoghurt at this stage.
- Step 5: If the mash is too thick, thin it with a little water. If it’s too thin, return it to the pan and simmer gently for a minute or two until it reaches your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an added flavor boost.
- Substitute lemon juice with a splash of apple cider vinegar for gentle acidity.
- For a richer mash, fold in a little olive oil or a vegan cheese alternative.
Storage
Store any leftover butter bean mash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or vegetable stock to loosen the consistency if needed.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried butter beans instead of tinned?
Yes, but make sure to soak and cook the dried beans until tender before using them in this recipe. This will take longer but results in a fresher flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this recipe contains no nuts and is safe for those with nut allergies. Just be sure to check that your vegan butter is also nut-free.
PrintButter Bean Mash with Lemon and Vegan Cream Recipe
A creamy, dairy-free butter bean mash made with simple ingredients, perfect as a hearty side dish or a nutritious snack. This recipe combines tender butter beans with vegetable stock, lemon juice, and optional vegan cream, simmered and blended to a smooth, velvety texture that’s both comforting and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Butter Bean Mash Ingredients
- 15 g dairy-free ‘butter’ (block margarine; e.g., Flora Plant Butter or Naturli Block)
- 800 g tinned butterbeans (2 x 400g tins)
- 150 ml vegetable stock (prepared from 150ml boiling water + 1 tsp stock powder)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1–2 tbsp vegan cream or plain yoghurt (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Vegan Butter: Melt the dairy-free butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until fully melted and warm.
- Add Butterbeans and Stock: Drain and rinse the tinned butterbeans thoroughly. Add them to the saucepan along with the prepared vegetable stock. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer Mixture: Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the mixture simmer on medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the beans to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Add Lemon Juice and Cream: Remove from heat briefly and add the lemon juice and vegan cream or plain yoghurt if using. This adds brightness and creaminess to the mash.
- Blend the Mash: Use a blender or food processor to blitz the mixture to a very smooth purée. For an extra creamy texture, you can add a splash more vegan cream or yoghurt while blending.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mash is too thick, add a splash of water and blend again. If it is too thin, return it to the pan and gently bubble for a minute or two to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Serve: Once the consistency and flavor are perfect, serve warm as a delicious and nutritious side dish.
Notes
- Using drained and rinsed canned butterbeans helps reduce any excess salt or preserving liquid.
- Vegetable stock can be substituted with homemade or low-sodium stock for healthier variations.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs during the simmering stage.
- Vegan cream or plain yoghurt is optional but adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang.
- This mash is great served alongside roasted vegetables, grilled tofu, or as a spread on bread.
Keywords: butter bean mash, vegan butter bean recipe, dairy-free side dish, creamy butter beans, vegan mash, plant-based side, easy vegan recipes

