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Great Northern Beans

These beans are traditionally prepared in the United States as Boston baked beans, and in France in the dish known as cassoulet.

The dried seeds of green beans, when mature, are known as Great Northern beans. These medium-sized white beans are traditionally prepared in the United States as Boston baked beans, and in France as the dish known as cassoulet. Rather bland-tasting, these beans receptively take on the flavors of the foods with which they are cooked.

Varieties

Like the smaller navy bean, Great Northern beans are related to kidney beans and pinto beans. Most Great Northern beans eaten in the United States are grown in the Midwest.

Buying and storing tips

Choose smooth, uniformly shaped dried beans and store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place; they will keep for up to a year.

Availability

Great Northern beans are available year-round, both dried and canned.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Before cooking, soak the beans for 8 hours and pressure cook for 20 minutes, or simmer on the stove for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. After cooking with savory spices, Great Northern beans can be puréed into a delicious soup, sauce, or pâté. 1 cup of dried Great Northern beans yields approximately 2 1/2 cups of cooked beans.

Nutritional Highlights

Great Northern beans, 1 cup (177g) (boiled)
Calories: 209
Protein: 14.7g
Carbohydrate: 37.3g
Total Fat: 0.79g
Fiber: 12.4g
*Excellent source of: Iron (3.7mg), Magnesium (88.5mg), and Folate (181 mcg)
*Good source of: Calcium (120mg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily Value.

Health benefits and concerns

Health benefits and concerns for legumes
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other legumes. Read about health benefits and concerns for legumes for a full description.