Cannellini & Great Northerns: What’s the Difference? | Camellia Brand (2024)

FAQs

Cannellini & Great Northerns: What’s the Difference? | Camellia Brand? ›

Camellia CEO Vince Hayward clarifies the difference:

"The difference between the two rests primarily with the heartiness of the cannellini over the northern," explains Vince Hayward, the president of Camellia Brand beans. "Because of the thicker skin, and slightly bolder bean taste, the cannellini lends itself better towards soups and stews," Hayward adds.

If you can't find cannellini beans, great Northern beans are the best stand-in.

Great Northerns are called “common beans” and are botanically classified as Phaseolus vulgaris alongside red kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, pink beans, and navy beans. These so-called common beans were spread through Central and South America by migrating farmers.

All beans are rich in fiber, but the top-ranking variety is the navy bean, allegedly named for its popularity in the U.S. Navy in the early 20th century. These pea-sized, cream-colored beans provide 10 grams of fiber per half-cup serving.

These beans are a good source of iron and folate that aids in the production of red blood cells. Phosphorous and manganese provide support for brain health and are beneficial to the nervous system. One of the most important reasons to add these beans to your diet is to gain the benefits of the protein they provide.

For great northerns, you can opt for pinto beans, chickpeas, or lima beans. These alternatives offer a similar tender texture and mild taste that work well in delicate dishes. On the other hand, if navy beans are unavailable, you can easily use any white or colored bean, such as white kidney beans or black beans.

There were two reasons for the shortage. The first was poor weather conditions in the Upper Midwest, where most of the nation's supply of cannellini beans are grown. The second was increased demand, which took the company by surprise.

The Great Northern White Bean was given its name due to the fact that it can thrive in the harshest conditions. The Native Americans were credited for cultivating the Great Northern Bean and shortly after the discovery of the new world the bean started finding its way to South America and Europe.

Great Northern Beans: The Meatiest of the Bunch

Unlike Navy Beans, Great Northern beans retain their shape when they're cooked, making them an excellent candidate for white bean soups and stews or — my own personal favorite – Vegan Cassoulet. Great Northern Beans have a mild, nutty flavor.

Is cannellini same as Great Northern? ›

Cannellini Beans are larger and heartier than Great Northerns and are sometimes referred to as “white kidney beans” because of their traditional kidney shape. You'll often find them mixed with pinto beans.

Though they come in several varieties, cannellini beans tend to be the most popular. Due to their high fiber and protein content, they may help support a healthy body weight, muscle mass, and digestion. In particular, they're a great source of protein for vegans and vegetarians.

Trader Joe's Cannellini White Kidney Beans are fully cooked and ready to use in your favorite recipes. Rinse Beans and serve over salads, pastas, soups or your favorite dishes.

For great northerns, you can opt for pinto beans, chickpeas, or lima beans. These alternatives offer a similar tender texture and mild taste that work well in delicate dishes.

Although these two beans are very similar to one another, they are each a different variety. The main difference between the two is that white Navy beans are smaller than white Great Northern beans. However, they have similar culinary uses and can easily be substituted for one another.

Several types exist, though the most common are cannellini beans, which are also called white kidney beans. Tender, with an earthy, nutty flavor, they make a great addition to soups, stews, chilis, and other dishes. This article reviews the nutrient profile, benefits, and uses of white beans.