Are Navy Beans the Same as Baked Beans?

Navy beans and baked beans are two common types of beans used in many dishes But are navy beans actually the same thing as baked beans? Let’s take a closer look at how these beans compare,

What are Navy Beans?

Navy beans are a variety of white beans belonging to the Phaseolus vulgaris species. They are small, oval-shaped beans with a creamy white color and smooth texture

Some key features of navy beans:

• Also called haricot beans. pea beans or Boston beans

• Mild, slightly nutty flavor

• Smooth, creamy texture when cooked

• High protein and fiber

• Used in soups, stews, salads, dips, baked goods

• Common in Mediterranean, British, and American cuisines

Navy beans have been a dietary staple for centuries. Their name comes from their use as a food source for the U.S. Navy in the 19th century. Today, they remain popular for their versatility and nutrition.

What are Baked Beans?

Baked beans are a dish made by cooking navy beans in a sauce. The beans are parboiled, then baked in a sweet, tangy sauce containing ingredients like molasses, sugar, mustard, and bacon.

Some key features of baked beans:

• Made from navy beans as the main ingredient

• Cooked low and slow to allow beans to absorb the sauce

• Signature brown sugary, tomato-based sauce

• Popular side dish, often served with hot dogs or burgers

• Traditional in British and New England cuisines

• Frequently served at cookouts and potlucks

While baked beans contain navy beans, the taste and texture is much different from plain cooked navy beans due to the sauce and extended cooking time. The baking process gives the beans a softened texture and caramelized flavor.

Are Canned Baked Beans Made from Navy Beans?

Commercially produced canned baked beans commonly use navy beans as the starting bean. The canning process allows the beans to be shelf-stable while retaining the flavors of the sauce.

To make canned baked beans:

• Navy beans are parboiled and added to sauce

• Beans and sauce sealed in cans

• Cans heated to high temperature to sterilize contents

• Result is canned beans infused with sweet, tangy sauce

• Shelf-stable at room temperature for 1-2 years when unopened

Canned baked beans offer convenience, allowing you to quickly heat and serve them. Most major brands like Bush’s, Van Camp’s, and B&M use navy beans to produce their canned baked bean products.

What About Homemade Baked Beans?

When making baked beans from scratch at home, nearly any bean can be used. While navy beans are traditional, substitutions like pinto, great northern, kidney, or black beans work too.

The key is choosing a bean that can withstand the long baking time without breaking down too much. Smaller beans like navy hold their shape better than larger beans. But any bean will absorb the sauce flavors nicely.

Using Navy Beans vs. Baked Beans

While navy beans and baked beans both contain navy beans, there are some key differences:

• Navy beans – Versatile standalone bean. Cooks faster than baked beans. Works in both savory and sweet recipes.

• Baked beans – Navy beans cooked in a sauce. Require lengthy baking to absorb flavors. Primarily used as a savory dish.

• Canned baked beans – Provide convenience and long shelf life. Already infused with sauce. Just heat and serve.

In terms of substitutions:

• Navy beans can be used in place of baked beans in recipes

• Canned baked beans can substitute for navy beans in some cases

• Homemade baked beans allow more flexibility with bean choice

Nutrition Comparison

Navy beans and baked beans have slightly different nutritional values:

• Navy beans – Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. Low in fat and calories. Provides minerals like iron, potassium and magnesium.

• Baked beans – Still contain protein and fiber, but lower amounts per serving. Added sugar and salt from sauce increases calorie, sodium, and sugar content.

• Canned baked beans – Similar to homemade baked beans. Convenience does come with higher sodium from canning process. Choose low-sodium options to help decrease sodium intake.

While baked beans offer added flavor, navy beans on their own tend to be a healthier choice overall. But both can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.

Recipes and Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas for using each type of bean:

• Navy beans – Soups, chilis, salads, dips, bean burgers, pasta e fagioli, white chicken chili

• Homemade baked beans – Cookouts, potlucks, baked bean dip, on top of nachos

• Canned baked beans – Hot dogs, burgers, breakfast dishes, bean wraps or tacos

The Bottom Line

Navy beans and baked beans are certainly related, but not exactly the same. Baked beans start with navy beans as a base, but transform into a saucy side dish after long cooking times. Canned baked beans provide a quick shortcut to flavorful bean dishes. But navy beans still shine when you want an easy, healthy bean to use in a variety of recipes.

• Navy beans = plain white beans

• Baked beans = navy beans + sauce + baking

• Canned baked beans = convenience version of baked bean dish

No matter which you choose, beans are a tasty and nutritious ingredient. Switch between navy beans and baked beans depending on the flavor profile you want in your meal.