Sieva beans

Sieva beans is an alternative term for lima beans, the flat, pale seeds of Phaseolus lunatus. Eaten fresh as a vegetable or dried as a pulse, they are a good source of protein, fibre, and minerals. Like all kidney-shaped beans they must be cooked thoroughly, since raw lima beans contain cyanogenic compounds that cooking destroys. They are a staple pulse in many cuisines, from succotash to stews, valued for their creamy texture when cooked thoroughly. Canned sieva beans offer convenience, though home cooks prize freshly shelled ones in season.