Quick Answer
When a recipe calls for white beans, it is referring to the dried, uncooked version of white beans such as cannellini beans, great northern beans, or navy beans. The recipe writer expects the cook to soak and boil the dried beans before adding them to the dish according to the recipe instructions. Canned white beans can sometimes be substituted for dried beans, but may need to be rinsed and drained first.
What Are White Beans?
White beans are a variety of beans that have a white color and creamy texture when cooked. There are several common types of white beans:
- Cannellini beans – A medium-sized white kidney bean that has a nutty, earthy flavor. Cannellini beans are popular in Italian cooking.
- Great northern beans – A large white bean with a delicate, nutty flavor. Great northern beans work well in soups and casseroles.
- Navy beans – Smaller white beans with a smooth texture. Navy beans are often used in baked bean dishes.
- Baby lima beans – A smaller variety of the lima bean that has a buttery taste.
- White runner beans – Large beans that hold their shape well when cooked.
While the different varieties have slightly different characteristics, in recipes the term “white beans” generally refers to any dried white bean. Cannellini beans and great northern beans are probably the most commonly called for white bean.
Using Dried vs. Canned White Beans
A recipe calling for white beans typically intends for the cook to use dried white beans. Dried beans need to be soaked, drained, and boiled before they are ready to use. Canned white beans can sometimes be substituted, but there are some important differences:
- Dried beans have a firmer, less mushy texture than canned beans.
- Canned beans may have added salt or preservatives.
- Canned beans are pre-cooked and just need to be rinsed and drained.
- Dried beans are cheaper to purchase than canned.
- Dried beans allow control over cooking time for desired texture.
If substituting canned beans in a recipe, make sure to rinse and drain them to remove any salty liquid. Canned beans may also need to simmer in the recipe liquid for several minutes to absorb flavors.
Soaking and Cooking Dried White Beans
Using dried beans requires planning ahead. The beans need to be soaked, drained, and boiled before adding them to a recipe. Here are tips for properly preparing dried white beans:
Soaking
Soaking beans accomplishes two things:
- Rehydrates the beans, allowing them to cook more evenly
- Begins breaking down complex sugars that cause gas
To soak beans:
- Pick over beans and rinse to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place beans in a bowl and cover with several inches of water. Let soak 8-12 hours or overnight.
- Drain beans and rinse thoroughly.
Soaked beans will expand to about double their dried size.
Boiling
After soaking, dried beans need to be boiled until tender before using in a recipe.
- Place soaked beans in a pot and cover with several inches of fresh water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer beans until tender, usually 1-2 hours. Check occasionally.
- Drain beans, reserving liquid if called for in the recipe.
Boiling time depends on the type and age of the bean. Test frequently for doneness. Beans are done when very soft and creamy inside.
Quick-Soak Method
If you don’t have time for overnight soaking, there is a quick-soak method:
- Bring beans and water to a boil in a pot.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 1 hour.
- Drain beans and proceed with recipe as directed.
The quick soak doesn’t allow beans to soak up as much water, so pay attention to doneness when boiling.
Storing Cooked White Beans
Leftover cooked beans can be stored for a few days for use in other recipes.
- Store cooked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will keep for 3-5 days.
- The beans may thicken up when chilled.
- Add a little water or broth when reheating if needed.
Cooked beans also freeze well. Portion beans into freezer bags or containers, leaving 1-inch headspace. Freeze up to 6 months.
Common Uses for White Beans
Once cooked, white beans can be incorporated into both savory and sweet dishes. Here are some popular ways to use them:
Soups and Stews
White beans pair well with seasonings like garlic, rosemary, thyme, and sage. They are often used in:
- Minestrone
- White bean and vegetable stew
- Tuscan bean soup
- Ham and bean soup
- White chicken chili
Salads and Sides
Toss drained canned beans or freshly cooked beans in:
- Three bean salad
- White bean salad with tomatoes and onion
- Pasta salad with white beans
- White bean dip or spread
- White bean puree
Entrees
Beans pair nicely with rice and vegetables in vegetarian main dishes. They can also be mixed with meats.
- White bean and vegetable casserole
- Red beans and rice
- Burritos or tacos with white beans
- White bean quesadillas or enchiladas
- Beans and ham
- Tuscan bean and sausage stew
Baked Goods
Pureed white beans can be used in place of some oil or butter in baking recipes. Try them in:
- Cakes
- Banana bread or zucchini bread
- Brownies
- Cookies
- Bean dip used as pizza crust
The beans add protein and moisture to baked goods.
What about white and pink beans?
Sometimes a recipe will include these ingredients:
- White beans
- Pink beans
Pink beans and white beans are not two different types of beans. The term “pink beans” refers to dried pinto beans that have not had the hulls removed. Pinto beans with the reddish hulls intact may also be labeled “white beans” or “red beans.” Once the pinto beans are hulled and split, revealing the creamy interior, they are referred to solely as pinto beans.
So white beans and pink beans both indicate pinto beans either before or after hulling. Canned pinto beans have already been hulled and split. A recipe calling for pink beans or white beans is referring to dried pinto beans that need soaking and boiling before use.
Nutrition Information
White beans are packed with nutrients including:
- Protein
- Fiber
- Iron
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Folate
They are an excellent source of plant-based protein. Here is the nutrition data for 1 cup of canned cannellini beans, drained (from the USDA):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 269 |
| Protein | 15.4g |
| Carbohydrates | 44.7g |
| Fiber | 12.5g |
| Fat | 0.8g |
| Iron | 5.2mg |
| Potassium | 484mg |
White beans are very low in fat. They contain no cholesterol. The fiber helps regulate digestion. The minerals like iron are vital for circulation and energy.
Including beans as part of a healthy diet can help manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The high protein content helps with maintaining muscle mass. Their versatility makes them easy to incorporate into many different recipes.
Common Questions
Can I use canned white beans instead of dried?
Canned white beans can be substituted for dried, but you may need to adjust cooking times. Rinse and drain canned beans to remove excess salt and liquid.
Do I need to soak beans before cooking?
Soaking is recommended to hydrate the beans fully and make them more digestible, but isn’t absolutely necessary. Unsoaked beans may take a little longer to become tender.
How long do beans keep after cooking?
Cooked beans last 3-5 days refrigerated. They can be frozen for several months. Reheat frozen beans before using.
Why add acids like lemon juice when cooking beans?
Acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, or tomatoes help beans retain their texture and prevent bursting. Add them toward the end of cooking.
Can beans cause digestive issues?
Beans contain sugars that can cause gas. Soaking, draining water while cooking, and adding acidic ingredients helps reduce indigestion. Introduce beans gradually to your diet.
Conclusion
When a recipe calls for white beans, it typically means dried white beans like cannellini or great northern which need pre-soaking and boiling. Canned beans can substitute for convenience. Soaked, cooked beans can be used in a wide variety of dishes from hearty soups and stews to light salads and dips. Their high protein and fiber content along with vitamins and minerals make them a healthy addition to many diets. Preparing them properly helps reduce digestive discomfort.