If you’re a fan of navy beans but are looking for a change, you’re in luck! There are so many delicious and budget-friendly alternatives to navy beans out there. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ones and give you some cooking tips and recipe ideas along the way. So without further ado, here are 10 budget-friendly and delicious alternatives to navy beans.

Delicious and Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Navy Beans

First up, we have white beans. White beans are a great alternative to navy beans because they have a similar texture and mild flavor. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and dips. One popular type of white beans is cannellini beans, which we’ll explore later on. Another type of white bean that is worth trying is Great Northern beans. Great Northern beans are slightly smaller than cannellini beans and have a creamy texture that makes them perfect for making hummus or bean dip.

Next, we have flageolet beans. Flageolet beans are a type of French bean that have a creamy texture and nutty flavor. They are a great alternative to navy beans in dishes like cassoulet and bean salads. Flageolet beans are also a good source of protein, iron, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Exploring the World of White Beans

As mentioned earlier, white beans are a great alternative to navy beans. One of the most popular types of white beans is cannellini beans. Cannellini beans are a little bit larger and plumper than navy beans, with a creamy texture and delicate flavor. Cannellini beans are great in Italian dishes like minestrone soup and pasta e fagioli.

Another type of white bean worth trying is lima beans. Lima beans are larger than navy beans and have a slightly buttery, nutty flavor. They are great in soups and stews, and also make a delicious side dish when dressed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Flageolet Beans: The Creamy and Nutty Alternative

Flageolet beans are a type of French bean that are creamy and nutty, with a delicate flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. They are small and green, and are a great alternative to navy beans in recipes like cassoulet and bean salads. Flageolet beans are also a good source of protein, iron, and fiber, making them a healthy and delicious option.

When cooking flageolet beans, it’s important to soak them overnight and rinse them thoroughly before cooking. This will help remove any impurities and make them easier to digest. To cook flageolet beans, bring them to a boil in a pot of water, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender, which usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

Cannellini Beans: The Perfect Substitute for Navy Beans

Cannellini beans are a type of white bean that are slightly larger and plumper than navy beans. They have a creamy texture and delicate flavor, which makes them a great alternative to navy beans in recipes like soup, stew, and chili. Cannellini beans are also a good source of protein, iron, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

When cooking cannellini beans, it’s important to soak them overnight and rinse them thoroughly before cooking. This will help remove any impurities and make them easier to digest. To cook cannellini beans, bring them to a boil in a pot of water, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender, which usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

Tepary Beans: The Nutrient-Packed Alternative

Tepary beans are a type of bean that is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. They are small and round, with a nutty flavor and firm texture. Tepary beans are a great source of nutrients, including protein, fiber, and iron, and are a good alternative to navy beans in recipes like chili and refried beans.

When cooking tepary beans, it’s important to soak them overnight and rinse them thoroughly before cooking. This will help remove any impurities and make them easier to digest. To cook tepary beans, bring them to a boil in a pot of water, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender, which usually takes around two hours.

Lentils: The Versatile and Protein-Packed Option

Lentils are a type of pulse that come in a variety of colors, including green, brown, and red. They are a great alternative to navy beans in recipes like soup, stew, and curry, and are also a good source of protein, fiber, and iron.

When cooking lentils, it’s important to rinse them thoroughly before cooking and to use a 2:1 ratio of water to lentils. This will help prevent them from turning mushy. Lentils cook quickly and usually take around 20-30 minutes to cook.

Cooking Tips for Bean Substitutes

How to Cook White Beans to Perfection

When cooking white beans, it’s important to soak them overnight and rinse them thoroughly before cooking. This will help remove any impurities and make them easier to digest. To cook white beans, bring them to a boil in a pot of water, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender, which usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

Another tip for cooking white beans is to add salt and acid (like tomatoes or lemon juice) towards the end of cooking. Adding salt too early can make the beans tough, and adding acid too early can prevent the beans from softening.

Flageolet Beans: Cooking and Serving Suggestions

Flageolet beans are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from cassoulet and bean salads to dips and spreads. One delicious way to serve flageolet beans is in a French-style cassoulet, which is a casserole of beans, vegetables, and meat. Flageolet beans also make a great addition to soups and stews.

Cannellini Beans: Cooking Tips and Recipe Ideas

Cannellini beans are a great alternative to navy beans in a variety of recipes, including soup, stew, and chili. One delicious way to use cannellini beans is in a tomato-based soup with kale or other leafy greens. Cannellini beans can also be used to make a creamy dip or spread, like hummus or bean dip.

Black Beans: Nutritional Benefits and Cooking Suggestions

Black beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy addition to any meal. To cook black beans, soak them overnight and rinse them thoroughly before cooking. Then, bring them to a boil in a pot of water, reduce the heat, and let them simmer until tender, which usually takes around 1-2 hours. Black beans can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and tacos. They also make a great vegetarian burger patty or filling for stuffed peppers.

How to Use Tepary Beans in Your Cooking

Tepary beans are a great alternative to navy beans in recipes like chili and refried beans. They have a nutty flavor and firm texture that makes them a great addition to salads and soups as well.

One delicious way to use tepary beans is in a southwestern-style taco salad with roasted corn, avocado, and lime dressing. Tepary beans can also be seasoned with cumin and smoked paprika for a flavorful side dish.

Another way to use tepary beans is to make a hearty and nutritious soup. Simply cook the beans with some vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, and add some chicken or vegetable broth. You can also add some diced tomatoes and spices like thyme and bay leaves for extra flavor.

If you’re looking for a healthy snack, try roasting tepary beans with some olive oil and sea salt. They make a great alternative to potato chips and are packed with protein and fiber.

Lentils 101: Cooking and Serving Suggestions

Lentils are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soup and stew to curry and salad. They cook quickly and are a great source of protein, fiber, and iron.

One delicious way to serve lentils is in a vegetable curry with coconut milk and spices like cumin and coriander. Lentils can also be used to make a hearty soup with vegetables and herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Another great way to enjoy lentils is in a cold salad. Simply cook the lentils until tender, then mix with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Add a dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley and mint for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

How to Choose the Right Bean Substitute for Your Recipe

Choosing the right bean substitute for your recipe can be overwhelming, but there are a few things to keep in mind that can make it easier. One important factor is texture: if you’re looking for a bean with a similar texture to navy beans, look for something like cannellini or Great Northern beans. For a creamier texture, try flageolet beans. For a nuttier texture, try tepary beans.

Another thing to consider is flavor: if you’re looking for a mild and versatile flavor, try white beans like cannellini or lima beans. For a nuttier flavor, try flageolet beans or tepary beans. For a slightly sweet flavor, try adzuki beans.

Finally, consider the recipe you’re making and the flavors and textures you want to achieve. Experiment with different bean substitutes to find the ones you like best!

Final Thoughts

There you have it: 10 budget-friendly and delicious alternatives to navy beans that you need to try. From white beans to flageolet beans to lentils, there’s something for everyone. Experiment with different substitutes to find your favorites, and enjoy all the delicious and healthy benefits that beans have to offer!