Sometimes when you read a recipe, it simply calls for “white beans.” But when you head to the grocery store, you probably won’t see jars, cans or bags labeled so simply. No, you’ll find a bewildering world of things labeled great northern white beans, navy beans, cannellini beans and more. While these are all technically white beans, these aren’t just different names for the same type of bean. In fact, each of these is actually a distinct varietal.
Cannellini beans are the largest of the three, with thin skin and a smooth, silky interior. They’re often used when you want the bean to retain their traditional kidney shape, like in salads or other recipes where beans are kept whole. The cannellini bean boasts an earthy flavor that makes them very common in Italian cooking, especially when paired with chicken or fish. No wonder it is known as the “Italian White Kidney Bean”.
In contrast, navy beans are most popular in American recipes. Dubbed the “Boston bean”, these small oval beans are a standard in an American-staple dish: baked bean. Navy beans don’t need their full shape and texture to shine in a dish, and often work best when pureed or cooked to a very soft consistency. These beans are right at home in soups and stews.
But if you’re looking for just one bean to keep on your pantry shelves, you’ll want to go with the great northern white bean. With its nutty flavor, firm flesh and medium size, great northern beans work in almost any application. Bean salad? Perfect. Baked beans? Fabulous. Bean dip? That nutty taste will give it a little something special.
Want to see their versatility for yourself? Why don’t you try them for dinner tonight? How about some Southwest White Chicken Chili? Maybe some Great Northern Beans in Tomato and Garlic Sauce is more up your alley. How about stepping out of the box and trying a Great Northern Bean Pizza?
Randall Great Northern Beans come fully cooked and ready to eat. Find a store that carries these delicious beans near you.
For great white bean recipes for every occasion, be sure to check out the Randall Beans Recipe Blog for weekly updates!
This recipe can be made with either Randall Great Northern Beans or the Randall Organic Great Northern Beans.
What is a Cannellini Bean?
Cannellini beans are the largest white bean, with thin skin and a smooth, silky interior. They’re often used when you want the bean to retain their traditional kidney shape, like in salads or other recipes where beans are kept whole.
What is a White Bean?
Some recipes simply call for “white beans.” This is a general term for great northern beans, navy beans, cannellini beans, and other similar beans. While these are all technically white beans, they all have distinct differences.
White Bean Chicken Chili – Dried Beans & Our Own Seasoning Blend – Foodie Friday #30 – ParoDeeJay
What is white bean chicken chili?
White Bean Chicken Chili is very different than traditional Chili. It’s got white beans instead of pintos or kidneys, chicken instead of ground beef, and a savory chicken gravy instead of a chile-based sauce. This particular chicken chili recipe got its start from one my friend Georgina gave me back in, you guessed it, the mid-90s.
What is substitute for lima beans?
Fava beans and kidney beans are worthy substitutes for lima beans. Fava beans can be eaten raw, which makes them a unique substitute, and the flavor is relatively close to that of lima beans. Nutritionally, fava beans also match up pretty closely to lima beans, but not as closely as red kidney beans. Although they don’t taste like lima beans, red kidney beans can serve as a substitute for lima beans in most recipes. Kidney beans are rich in, and contain similar amounts of; fiber, protein, iron, folate, potassium, vitamin B6, and contain many more nutrients. Aim for consuming at least one cup of a variety of beans daily for optimal health.
What kind of beans do you use for chili?
Adjust the heat level to your preference by adding or toning down the spices or peppers. Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans are popular choices for this chili, with their creamy texture and mild taste. These beans provide a good dose of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients, like iron and potassium.
Is white bean chili vegan?
If you want a great vegan white bean chili try our favorite Vegetarian White Bean Chili. Great northern beans go great in any chili calling for white beans, and hold up well in the cooking process. Their slightly nutty flavor is great, but they also absorb the flavor of other components in your chili as it cooks.