Is There Another Name for Great Northern Beans? A Comprehensive Guide

Great northern beans are a popular ingredient in many kitchens worldwide. Their mild flavor, creamy texture, and nutritional benefits make them versatile and easy to incorporate into various dishes. However, as you explore recipes or shop for ingredients, you may encounter other names for these beans, which can create some confusion. This begs the question: Is there another name for great northern beans? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the alternate names for great northern beans, their common uses, nutritional value, how they compare to other beans, and popular recipes.

By the end of this article, you will have a complete understanding of great northern beans, the names they go by, and how to cook and enjoy them in your favorite dishes.

1. What Are Great Northern Beans? 

Great northern beans are a type of white bean that belongs to the family Phaseolus vulgaris, which includes many other common beans such as navy beans, kidney beans, and black beans. These beans are medium-sized, white, and oval-shaped, known for their mild, nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked. Due to their ability to absorb the flavors of the ingredients they’re cooked with, great northern beans are commonly used in soups, stews, casseroles, and salads.

Appearance and Flavor Profile

• Color: White
• Size: Medium (larger than navy beans, smaller than cannellini beans)
• Texture: Soft and creamy when cooked
• Flavor: Mild and slightly nutty

Culinary Uses

These beans are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are often found in:

• White bean chili: As the primary protein source in this hearty dish.
• Bean soups: Adding creaminess and body to the broth.
• Baked beans: Often used in recipes calling for slow-cooked beans with rich, smoky flavors.

To learn more about how to use great northern beans in a variety of dishes, you can check out our Guide to Cooking Beans.

2. Alternate Names for Great Northern Beans 

While great northern beans are commonly called by this name in the United States, they are known by different names in other countries and regions. Additionally, due to their similarities with other white beans, they are sometimes mistaken for or referred to by other names. Here’s a look at the alternate names for great northern beans.

Common Alternate Names

• Large White Beans: In some regions, particularly in countries like Australia and the UK, great northern beans may be referred to as “large white beans.” However, this name can also apply to other varieties of white beans, such as cannellini beans.
• White Kidney Beans: This name is more commonly associated with cannellini beans, but in certain recipes or grocery stores, great northern beans may also be referred to as white kidney beans.
• Haricot Beans: In some contexts, especially in the UK, great northern beans are grouped under the broader category of haricot beans, which includes various small white beans like navy beans.

Alternate Names in Different Countries

• Australia: Referred to as large white beans, though this term can sometimes cause confusion because it can include other beans that are white and large.
• United Kingdom: They may be grouped under the general category of haricot beans, though this is more often used to refer to smaller beans such as navy beans.

Despite these alternate names, great northern beans remain distinct due to their specific size, texture, and cooking characteristics. Recipes calling for great northern beans often emphasize their soft, creamy texture, which sets them apart from other white beans.

For more insights into the different types of beans and their names, you can explore our Ultimate Guide to Beans.

3. Comparison of Great Northern Beans with Similar Beans 

Given their appearance and texture, great northern beans are often confused with other varieties of white beans. Understanding the differences between great northern beans and similar beans can help you choose the right one for your recipe. Below, we compare great northern beans with other popular beans:

Navy Beans vs. Great Northern Beans

Navy beans are smaller and rounder than great northern beans, and they have a slightly firmer texture. Both are white beans, but their culinary uses differ due to the textural differences.

• Texture: Navy beans are denser and firmer, making them ideal for baked beans and slow-cooked dishes where a firmer texture is desired.
• Flavor: Navy beans have a mild flavor, similar to great northern beans, but they absorb flavors differently due to their smaller size and denser texture.

Great northern beans, on the other hand, have a softer, creamier texture and are better suited for soups and dishes where you want the beans to blend more with the broth.

Cannellini Beans vs. Great Northern Beans

Cannellini beans, also known as white kidney beans, are larger than great northern beans and have a firmer texture. They hold their shape well during cooking, making them a great choice for stews and salads.

• Size: Cannellini beans are larger and have a more elongated shape compared to the oval-shaped great northern beans.
• Texture: Cannellini beans are firmer and can withstand longer cooking times without breaking apart. Great northern beans become creamier when cooked.
• Flavor: Both beans have a mild flavor, but cannellini beans are slightly nuttier and more robust.

Lima Beans vs. Great Northern Beans

Though lima beans and great northern beans are both white, their uses in the kitchen differ significantly. Lima beans are starchier and have a slightly buttery flavor, making them more suitable for dishes like casseroles and side dishes.

• Texture: Lima beans are firmer and starchier, while great northern beans are softer.
• Flavor: Lima beans have a unique, buttery flavor that distinguishes them from other white beans.

Substitution Guide

While great northern beans can be substituted for other white beans in most recipes, there may be slight differences in texture and flavor. Here’s a quick substitution guide:

• Navy Beans: Best for baked beans or dishes that require a firmer texture.
• Cannellini Beans: Ideal for stews and salads where the beans need to hold their shape.
• Lima Beans: Use for side dishes where a starchier, buttery flavor is desired.

For more details on the different varieties of beans and how to use them, you can explore our Bean Substitution Guide.

4. Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Great Northern Beans 

Great northern beans are packed with essential nutrients, making them a valuable addition to any diet. These beans are high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Let’s break down their nutritional profile and explore the health benefits.

Nutritional Facts (Per 1 Cup of Cooked Beans)

• Calories: 209 kcal
• Protein: 14.7 grams
• Fiber: 12.4 grams
• Fat: 0.8 grams
• Iron: 3.6 mg (20% DV)
• Potassium: 710 mg (20% DV)
• Magnesium: 76 mg (19% DV)

Health Benefits

1. Digestive Health
   With over 12 grams of fiber per cup, great northern beans support healthy digestion. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Additionally, a high-fiber diet can lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
2. Heart Health
   Great northern beans are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. The combination of fiber, potassium, and magnesium also supports overall heart health, making these beans a heart-healthy food option.
3. Protein Source
   As a plant-based protein, great northern beans are an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. They provide nearly 15 grams of protein per cup, which helps build and repair tissues, and is vital for muscle function and immune health.
4. Weight Management
   The high fiber content in great northern beans promotes feelings of fullness, which can help prevent overeating and support weight management. Beans are also low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to any weight-loss plan.

For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of great northern beans and other legumes, visit our Complete Nutrition Guide to Beans.

5. Cooking Methods for Great Northern Beans 

Dried Beans vs. Canned Beans

When it comes to cooking great northern beans, you have two main options: using dried beans or canned beans. Each method has its pros and cons, and your choice may depend on how much time you have and the desired texture for your dish.

Cooking Dried Great Northern Beans

Step 1: Soaking the Beans

Soaking dried beans before cooking helps reduce cooking time and improve their digestibility. There are two common soaking methods:

1. Overnight Soak: Rinse the beans and soak them in cold water for 8–12 hours.
2. Quick Soak: Bring the beans to a boil in water, then remove from heat and let them soak for 1 hour.

Step 2: Cooking the Beans

Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans. Place them in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. You can add aromatics like garlic, onion, bay leaves, or rosemary to enhance the flavor of the beans.

Cooking Canned Great Northern Beans

Canned beans are a convenient option because they are pre-cooked. To use canned beans, simply drain and rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium. You can then add them directly to your recipe, whether you’re making a soup, stew, or salad.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor of great northern beans, consider adding some of the following ingredients during cooking:

• Herbs and Spices: Garlic, rosemary, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper.
• Vegetables: Onion, celery, carrots, and bell peppers.
• Aromatics: A drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice can bring out the beans’ subtle flavor.

For more tips on cooking beans to perfection, visit our Ultimate Bean Cooking Guide.

6. Delicious Recipes Using Great Northern Beans 

One of the best things about great northern beans is their versatility in cooking. Below are some of the most popular and delicious recipes featuring these beans.

White Bean Soup

This classic soup is perfect for colder months. The creamy texture of the great northern beans combines beautifully with vegetables and herbs, creating a hearty and comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• Great northern beans
• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Garlic
• Vegetable broth
• Bay leaves
• Thyme

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the beans, vegetable broth, and herbs.
3. Simmer for 30 minutes until the flavors meld together. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.

White Chicken Chili

A lighter alternative to traditional chili, this dish uses great northern beans as the base, along with chicken and green chilies.

Ingredients:

• Great northern beans
• Chicken breast
• Green chilies
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cumin
• Chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Sauté the chicken and onions until cooked through.
2. Add the beans, broth, green chilies, and spices.
3. Simmer for 20-30 minutes and garnish with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

Baked Beans

For a sweeter and tangier dish, baked beans are a classic recipe. The great northern beans soak up the flavors of molasses, mustard, and bacon for a rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• Great northern beans
• Bacon
• Onion
• Molasses
• Mustard
• Brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Combine beans, cooked bacon, onions, and seasonings in a casserole dish.
2. Bake for 1-2 hours at 350°F, stirring occasionally.

Bean Salad

For a refreshing and healthy meal, try a bean salad. Great northern beans combine with fresh vegetables and herbs for a protein-packed dish.

Ingredients:

• Great northern beans
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Parsley
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Toss with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Chill for an hour before serving.

For more recipe inspiration using great northern beans, check out our Complete Recipe Guide.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Great Northern Beans 

Are Great Northern Beans the Same as Navy Beans?

No, great northern beans are larger and creamier than navy beans, which are smaller and denser.

Can You Substitute Great Northern Beans for Cannellini Beans?

Yes, great northern beans can be substituted for cannellini beans in most recipes. However, cannellini beans are slightly larger and firmer.

What Are Great Northern Beans Called in Other Countries?

In some countries, great northern beans are referred to as large white beans or grouped under haricot beans, especially in the UK and Australia.

Do Great Northern Beans Need to Be Soaked Before Cooking?

Soaking dried beans is recommended because it reduces cooking time and improves their texture. However, canned beans are already pre-cooked and do not need soaking.

For more FAQs on great northern beans, visit our FAQ Section.

Conclusion 

Great northern beans are a versatile, nutritious, and affordable ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. Whether you’re preparing a simple bean salad, a hearty white bean soup, or a flavorful chili, these beans provide the perfect texture and flavor. With their rich nutritional profile, great northern beans are an excellent addition to any diet, offering plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

While they may be known by other names in different regions, such as large white beans or white kidney beans, great northern beans maintain their unique characteristics and are a staple in many kitchens. By learning the different names, cooking methods, and recipes, you can make the most of these beans in your meals.

For more inspiration on how to cook with beans, visit our Complete Guide to Beans and explore the wide range of dishes you can make with these versatile legumes.