what are soldier beans used for

What Are Soldier Beans Used For? A Complete Guide to These Unique Heirloom Beans

Soldier beans, also known as red-eye beans, are a lesser-known variety of heirloom beans with a fascinating history. Though not as widely available as pinto or black beans, these hardy New England natives have a loyal following thanks to their versatility, texture, and mild flavor.

If you’re new to soldier beans, you may be wondering – what exactly are they used for? From soups and stews to salads and side dishes, soldier beans are an incredibly versatile pantry staple. Here’s a complete guide to soldier beans, including their history, how to cook them, and delicious recipes to try.

What are Soldier Beans?

Soldier beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are an heirloom variety of common beans native to New England. They have been cultivated there since before 1800. The distinct red markings on the beans resemble toy soldiers, giving rise to the name “soldier beans.” They are also known as red-eye beans due to the red speckles.

Soldier beans are a bush bean with a firm texture reminiscent of al dente pasta. When dried, they have a mild, lightly earthy taste much like a white bean. The beans are medium-sized, averaging around 3⁄4 inch long.

Today, soldier beans are grown almost exclusively in New England in small batches based on demand. They are not produced commercially on a wide scale. This crop’s regional uniqueness and limited availability make it a coveted pantry item for lovers of heirloom beans.

How to Cook Soldier Beans

Like most other dried beans, soldier beans require presoaking before cooking. Here are simple instructions for preparing soldier beans:

• Rinse and sort through the dried beans to remove any debris. Place them in a large bowl and cover with at least 3 inches of cool water. Let soak 8 hours or overnight.

• Drain the beans and rinse well. Discard the soaking water.

• Place beans in a pot and cover with fresh water by about 1 1⁄2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 45 min to 1 hour until beans are tender but not bursting. Add more water if needed.

• Season beans with salt, herbs, spices, onions, garlic, etc. to taste.

The cooked beans can then be used in your choice of recipes, which we’ll explore more below. Note that adding salt or acidic ingredients like tomatoes early in the cooking process can prevent the beans from softening fully, so season at the end.

What Do Soldier Beans Taste Like?

When dried soldier beans are soaked and cooked, they have a mild bean-like flavor with hints of earthiness. The interior has a creamy texture while the outer skin remains intact but tender. The taste is versatile enough to complement different seasonings.

Soldier beans work well in place of other white beans like cannellini or navy beans. Some fans describe the flavor as falling somewhere between a navy bean and pinto bean. The taste is largely what you make it based on how you season and prepare the beans.

People often compare soldier beans to Maine’s famous yellow-eye beans. The two heirloom bean varieties can be used interchangeably in recipes. However, true soldier beans have that distinctive red speckling whereas yellow-eyes are solid yellow.

How to Use Soldier Beans

Now that you’re familiar with what soldier beans are, let’s dive into all the delicious ways to enjoy them! Here are some of the most popular uses for soldier beans:

• Bean soups and chowders – Use cooked soldier beans in place of other beans like cannellini or great northern in any bean soup recipe. They work especially well in classic New England soups and chowders.

• Stews and chili – The hearty texture of soldier beans is perfect for beef or veggie stews. They also make a fiber-filled base for classic chili.

• Salads – Toss cooked, chilled soldier beans with mixed greens, chopped veggies, feta or goat cheese for a protein-packed salad.

• Baked beans – Soldier beans shine in homemade baked bean recipes flavored with smoky bacon, molasses and spices.

• Sides – Serve soldier beans warm with rice or grains, wilted greens and roasted veggies for a satisfying meatless meal.

• Dips and spreads – Blend cooked soldier beans with garlic, herbs and olive oil for a creamy white bean dip or spread.

• Casseroles – Mix soldier beans with sautéed veggies, broth, cheese, herbs and breadcrumbs to create a hearty vegetarian casserole.

The possibilities are endless! Soldier beans make a protein- and fiber-rich addition to countless savory dishes. Their ability to absorb surrounding flavors allows for customizable seasoning.

What Pairs Well with Soldier Beans?

Since soldier beans have a relatively neutral taste, they pair beautifully with all kinds of ingredients. Here are some tasty flavor combinations:

• Aromatics – Onion, garlic, shallots
• Herbs – Rosemary, oregano, basil, thyme, sage, cilantro
• Spices – Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, curry powder
• Alliums – Sautéed leeks, scallions, ramps
• Leafy greens – Kale, spinach, chard, arugula
• Other veggies – Carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, corn, zucchini
• Cheeses – Parmesan, feta, goat cheese, cheddar
• Grains – Rice, barley, farro, quinoa
• Meats – Bacon, ham, sausage, leftover chicken

Of course, you can season soldier beans however you like. Part of the fun is experimenting with different flavor combinations in your favorite bean recipes.

Popular Soldier Bean Recipes to Try

Looking for recipe inspiration? Here are some crowd-pleasing soldier bean dishes:

• White bean and kale soup with garlic and Parmesan
• Soldier bean chili with sweet potatoes and quinoa
• Warm soldier bean salad with arugula, fennel and lemon vinaigrette
• Creamy soldier bean dip with rosemary and goat cheese
• Baked soldier beans with molasses, bacon and maple sausage
• Soldier bean and veggie stew with carrots, kale and thyme

Where to Buy Soldier Beans

Wondering where to find soldier beans? As a regional specialty crop, they can be trickier to locate than mainstream beans. Here are some options:

• Specialty online retailers – Companies like Maine Grains source and sell soldier beans online.

• Direct from farms – Some New England farms like Green Thumb Farms sell soldier beans through their websites.

• Farmers markets – Look for heirloom bean vendors at local farmers markets in New England.

• Natural food stores – Well-stocked co-ops and health food stores may carry soldier beans.

• Grocery stores in New England – Large grocery stores in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, etc. often sell soldier beans in bulk bins or packaged.

• Amazon – You can sometimes find soldier beans from third party sellers on Amazon.

Be sure to check the packaging for 100% soldier beans rather than a generic bean blend. And once you try soldier beans, you’ll see why people seek out these special heirloom beans!

The Takeaway on Soldier Beans

Soldier beans are a delightful heirloom bean variety with a long history in New England’s culinary traditions. Their mild taste, creamy texture and visual appeal make them a unique alternative to ordinary beans. Cook soldier beans low and slow, then add your own touch with creative seasoning. Beyond classic baked beans, soldier beans shine in soups, stews, salads, dips and more. Tracking down these specialty beans may take some effort, but your search will be rewarded with a tasty addition to your legume lineup.