Navy Beans vs. Great Northern Beans: What’s the Difference?
White beans are a versatile and nutritious staple in cuisines around the world. Whether you’re making a hearty soup, a flavorful stew, or a simple side dish, white beans add a creamy texture and a boost of protein and fiber to your plate.
But when you’re standing in the bean aisle, you might wonder: are navy beans and great northern beans the same thing? While they share many similarities, these two types of white beans have some key differences.
In this article, we’ll explore the nuances between navy beans and great northern beans. We’ll compare their appearance, taste, nutritional profiles, cooking characteristics, and culinary uses to help you choose the right bean for your next recipe. So, let’s dive into the world of white beans and unravel the mystery of “are navy beans the same as great northern beans?”
What are navy beans and great northern beans?
Navy beans and great northern beans are both white beans, but they differ in size, shape, and flavor.
Navy beans: A historical perspective
Navy beans, also known as pea beans or small white beans, are believed to have originated in South America. They earned their name thanks to the U.S. Navy, which began serving them to sailors in the mid-1800s. They’re small, oval-shaped, and, as the name implies, white.
Great northern beans: A mild giant
Great northern beans are larger than navy beans, with a kidney-like shape. Their flavor is mild and nutty compared to navy beans, which have a more robust bean flavor.
Appearance: Size, Shape, and Color
Navy beans and Great Northern beans are both creamy white, but that’s where the similarities end.
Navy beans are smaller and rounder, while Great Northern beans are larger and more oval-shaped.
The difference in size may seem minor, but it affects how the beans cook and how they ultimately change the texture of a finished dish. Because they’re smaller, navy beans cook faster. They also tend to become creamier and denser as they cook. That makes them a good choice for thickening soups. Great Northern beans, on the other hand, hold their shape better. They have a lighter, fluffier texture, so they’re often used in salads and stews.
Taste and texture: A subtle but important distinction
While navy beans and Great Northern beans can often be used interchangeably, their subtle differences in flavor and texture can sometimes make a big difference in a dish.
Navy beans have a mild, slightly earthy flavor. Great Northern beans are milder still, with a nutty and slightly sweet taste.
When cooked, navy beans tend to hold their shape better than Great Northern beans. Great Northern beans, on the other hand, tend to become creamier.
These subtle differences mean that some dishes are better suited to one bean or the other. Creamy soups, for example, often benefit from the creamy texture of Great Northern beans. Dishes that require firmer beans, like some baked bean recipes, are often better with navy beans.
Nutritional value: A side-by-side comparison
Navy beans and Great Northern beans are nutritional powerhouses. Let’s see how they stack up:
- Protein: Both are excellent sources of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to increase their protein intake.
- Fiber: Both beans are high in fiber, which is essential for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can contribute to feelings of fullness.
- Vitamins and Minerals: You’ll find a good dose of iron, folate, and potassium in both navy and Great Northern beans. Iron is crucial for carrying oxygen in the blood, folate is important for cell growth, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure.
- Calories and Glycemic Index: Both beans have a similar calorie count and a low glycemic index, meaning they won’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.
Ultimately, both navy beans and Great Northern beans are healthy additions to any balanced diet. Enjoy them in soups, stews, salads, or as a side dish!
Cooking time and methods: Getting it right
Whether you choose navy beans or great northerns, cooking them properly will give you the best flavor and texture.
Dried beans: Soaking and cooking
If you’re starting with dried beans, it’s a good idea to soak them first. Soaking cuts down on the cooking time and also helps with digestion.
You can soak them overnight or do a quick soak: just boil them for a few minutes and then let them sit in the hot water for an hour or so.
Navy beans tend to cook a little faster than great northerns, but both can be cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot.
Canned beans: A convenient alternative
Canned beans are super convenient if you’re short on time.
Be sure to rinse them before you use them to wash away some of the starch and reduce the sodium content.
Most canned beans have added sodium, so if you’re watching your salt intake, look for low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties.
Cost comparison: budget-friendly options
If you’re trying to save money, both navy beans and Great Northern beans are great options. But let’s compare the costs a little more closely.
In most stores, dried navy beans are a little cheaper than dried Great Northern beans. The price difference is usually negligible, though. You may find that canned navy beans are slightly less expensive than canned Great Northern beans as well.
And a final tip: dried beans are much more cost-effective than canned beans, regardless of which type you choose.
Culinary uses and recipe ideas: from soups to desserts
Both navy beans and Great Northern beans are versatile and can be used in many different recipes.
Navy bean dishes
Navy beans are the star of the show in some iconic dishes like Senate bean soup, Boston baked beans, and pork and beans. But don’t stop there! Navy beans are also excellent in soups, stews, and even dips.
Great Northern bean dishes
Great Northern beans shine in soups, stews, and salads. Because of their mild flavor, they’re especially good in creamy dishes. Some cooks like to pair them with seafood, like shrimp.
General white bean recipes
When a recipe calls for white beans, you can use either navy beans or Great Northern beans. Think chili, white bean hummus, or even white bean brownies.
Can you substitute one for the other?
In many recipes, you can use navy beans and Great Northern beans interchangeably. If you do substitute one for the other, keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust it as needed. Great Northerns are slightly larger and may need a few extra minutes to become tender.
Keep in mind that the slight difference in flavor and texture will affect your final dish. If the recipe calls for a very specific flavor, sticking with the original bean is best.
Final Thoughts
Navy beans and great northern beans have a lot in common: their color, their nutritional profile, and their status as pantry staples. But they have distinct characteristics, too. Great northerns are known for their delicate, nutty flavor, while navy beans are small and creamy.
Both of these beans are nutritional powerhouses. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They’re also incredibly versatile. You can use them in soups, stews, salads, dips, and countless other dishes.
The best way to decide whether you prefer navy beans or great northern beans is to try them both! Experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations to discover your own favorite ways to enjoy these healthy and delicious legumes. Whether you choose navy beans or great northerns (or both!), you’ll be adding a nutritious and satisfying ingredient to your diet.