If you’re after a quick, fibre-rich snack that ticks all the boxes – this one’s for you. These air-fried butter beans are crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and packed with flavour from tahini, garlic, and a touch of rosemary. Only two main ingredients and a handful of spices, but so much satisfaction in every bite.
This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen. It’s a wholesome alternative to crisps when those snack cravings hit – plus, you’re getting in a good dose of plant-based protein and fibre. Perfect for sprinkling on salads, adding crunch to soups, or just enjoying by the handful. This one’s especially perfect if you’re trying to eat more plants and keep your snacks feeling good – and tasting even better. Serve it warm and crispy, straight from the air fryer, and thank me later.
Tips
- Pat the beans dry first – Before mixing with tahini and spices, gently pat the butter beans dry with a kitchen towel. This helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.
- Use runny tahini – A smoother, more liquid tahini will coat the beans more evenly and help the spices stick. If your tahini is thick, stir in a splash of warm water or lemon juice to loosen it slightly.
- Mix gently – Butter beans are delicate! Stir them gently to avoid breaking them apart when mixing with tahini and spices.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – This is key! Cook in batches if needed so the beans can crisp up evenly. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast.
- Shake halfway through – Give the basket a little shake around the 3-minute mark to help them cook evenly on all sides.
- Cool before storing – Let them cool completely before storing in a container. This helps keep them crisp instead of going soggy.
Swaps
Butter beans: Chickpeas or cannellini beans work really well too. Just make sure to drain them properly.
Tahini: Try with olive oil or almond butter – just as creamy and delicious.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavour, or chilli flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Garlic powder: Fresh garlic works too – just mince it finely.
Rosemary: Oregano or thyme are lovely alternatives.
Onion powder: A little grated onion or shallot will do the trick.
Storage
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The beans will soften a little over time but still taste great.
Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to crisp them up again before serving.
Freezer: Not ideal for freezing as the texture won’t hold up well once thawed and reheated. Best enjoyed fresh!
More Nibble Ideas
Tahini Roasted Butter Beans
Ingredients
- 1 can butter beans
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tsp garlic
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 onion powder
- rosemary
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a bowl and mix.
- Pour the beans into the air fryer and make sure they are well spread out, ideally they don’t touch each other. With my air fryer size I am doing the baking in 2 batches.
- Bake for 6 mins at 180c