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Navy Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris

Origin / Harvest:

  • USA / September–October
  • Canada / September–October
  • China / October

Description & History

Easily stored for long periods and an excellent concentrated food source, navy beans were the white bean of choice for the U.S. Navy in the early 20th century and the source of their popular name. Navy beans are also referred to as pea beans.

Actually a variety of kidney bean, navy beans fall under the botanical classification Phaseolus vulgaris. All beans within this species are considered derived from a common bean ancestor that originated in Peru and are also referred to as “common beans”. Some of our most popular bean varieties are common beans including black, kidney, pinto, and navy beans. These common bean varieties spread throughout South and Central America by way of migrating Indian traders. Spanish explorers returning from their voyages to the New World carried these beans back to Europe during the 15th century. Spanish and Portuguese traders in turn introduced common beans to Africa and Asia. Today, the largest commercial producers of dried common beans are India, China, Indonesia, Brazil and the United States.

Navy beans are pea–sized and creamy white in color.

Uses

Navy beans have a mild flavor and creamy texture suitable for a wide variety of bean dishes. Because their skin and texture do not break apart during cooking, navy beans are the bean of choice for Boston and English baked bean recipes. In fact, the navy bean is the official vegetable for the state of Massachusetts, the Baked Bean State. Navy beans are a popular choice for soups, stews, and casseroles. They can also be used as a substitute for cannellini and navy beans.

Nutrition

Navy beans have mild flavor and creamy texture suitable for a wide variety of bean dishes. Because their skin and texture do not break apart during cooking, navy beans are the bean of choice for Boston and English baked bean recipes. In fact, the navy bean is the official vegetable for the state of Massachusetts, the Baked Bean State. Navy beans are a popular choice for soups, stews, and casseroles. They can also be used as a substitute for cannellini and navy beans.