A steaming bowl of chili loaded with spicy flavor is a beloved comfort food for many. And while chili often contains kidney beans or pinto beans, another variety is gaining popularity – the white bean. Not only does it add delicious texture and nutrition, but it creates a chili with a creamy, soothing taste. But what exactly are the white beans that work best in chili? Let’s unravel the mysteries of cannellini beans and others perfect for your next pot!
One of the most popular white beans used in chili is the cannellini bean. Sometimes called the “Italian kidney bean” cannellini beans have a large oval shape and smooth texture. Their skin is an even white color that becomes tender and creamy when cooked.
Cannellini beans originate from Italy and are the bean typically called for in recipes for minestrone soup, pasta e fagioli, and Tuscan dishes. But their mild, nutty flavor also pairs deliciously with the bold seasonings in chili The creamy cannellini beans provide a soothing contrast to the spicy chiles and smoky meats.
Key Features of Cannellini Beans
What makes cannellini beans ideal for chili?
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Large size and oval shape stand out visually against other ingredients
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Bright white color looks striking next to darker bean varieties
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Soft, creamy texture when cooked but still retain their shape
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Subtle, earthy taste complements but doesn’t overpower seasonings
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Firmness allows them to hold up well during long simmering times
Their versatility in terms of flavor and texture makes cannellini beans a perfect addition to chili.
More White Bean Options for Chili
While cannellini beans may be the most popular, other white bean varieties can also add their own unique qualities to chili:
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Great Northern beans – Very large and creamy. Similar flavor to cannellinis.
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Navy beans – Smaller size. Firm texture and nutty taste.
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Baby lima beans – Dense and buttery when cooked. Subtle grassy notes.
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Marfax beans – Large and kidney-shaped. Smooth, starchy texture.
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Mayocoba beans – Meaty, with an exceptional creamy texture.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different white beans in your chili until you find your perfect match!
Benefits of Adding White Beans to Chili
Incorporating white beans like cannellini into your chili provides some great benefits:
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Protein – Beans add extra plant-based protein. Great for vegetarian chilis.
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Fiber – The high fiber content keeps you fuller longer.
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Texture – Creamy beans contrast nicely with chunks of meat and peppers.
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Mild flavor – Allows bolder seasonings like chili powder and cumin to shine.
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Color – White beans make the chili look vibrant and appetizing.
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Cost – Dried beans help stretch the chili affordably.
With all they contribute, white beans are a valuable addition to maximize the nutrition and flavor of any chili.
Tips for Cooking White Beans for Chili
For the best results, keep these tips in mind:
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Soak dried white beans overnight, or do a quick soak in boiling water for 1 hour before cooking. Rehydrating is key for evenly cooked beans.
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Simmer beans in fresh water or broth until very tender before adding to chili. They should be soft but still hold their shape.
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For convenience, canned white beans can be substituted. Just rinse and drain them first.
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Add cooked white beans toward the end of cooking time for chili, just to heat through.
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Stir in some of the bean cooking liquid to add thickness and creaminess to the chili.
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Season beans with chili spices as they cook for maximum flavor infusion.
With the proper preparation, white beans will become the perfect creamy, savory addition to your chili.
Classic Chili Recipes Made Better with White Beans
White beans blend seamlessly into many types of chili:
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White Chicken Chili – Cannellini beans pair well with shredded chicken breast and green chiles. A fresh, lighter option.
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Cincinnati Chili – The starchiness of white beans works well in this meaty, cinnamon-spiced chili.
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Vegetarian Chili – Beans provide important protein and texture when omitting meat.
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Turkey Chili – Great Northern beans add extra heartiness and creaminess.
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Classic Beef Chili – A few white beans lend a soothing note to the heat.
Don’t hesitate to throw some white beans into your next batch of chili. They’re sure to enhance both flavor and nutrition!
Tips for Selecting and Storing White Beans
To enjoy white beans at their best, purchase and store them with care:
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For dried beans, choose plump, uniform beans with undamaged skins. Avoid beans with dark spots or holes.
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With canned beans, opt for BPA-free cans, and try low-sodium versions to control salt content.
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Store dried, uncooked beans in airtight containers in a cool, dry place for up to 12 months.
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Once cooked, beans last 3-5 days in the fridge and can be frozen for extended storage.
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Refrigerate canned beans after opening, and use within 3-5 days for optimum freshness.
By properly selecting and storing white beans, you’ll have them ready to make a perfect pot of chili anytime.
Discover the Wonders of White Beans in Chili
Cannellini, Great Northern, navy – the options for creamy, savory white beans in chili are plentiful. Their smooth texture and mild flavor complement the spices and meat beautifully. Beyond just nutrition, white beans add appealing color and taste interest. Next time you cook up a batch of classic chili or want to try something new, don’t hesitate to throw in some white beans. Your taste buds will thank you with each comforting spoonful.
White Chili BeansMake a white bean chili that packs a flavorful punch with our White Chili Beans. We slow-cook great northern beans until they’re tender, then simmer them in white chili sauce perfectly seasoned with garlic, cumin and onion.
Available in: 15.5 oz
What makes these beans so beautiful?
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Gluten free
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7g (10% DV) of protein per serving
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Excellent source of fiber
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Cooked and canned in the USA
White Bean Chili
FAQ
What is another name for white beans?
Are white beans and lima beans the same?
What is the common name for white beans?
Are white beans and great northern the same?
What is white bean chicken chili?
This White Bean Chicken Chili is a heartwarming, satisfying meal that combines tender pieces of chicken, creamy white beans, and a beautiful blend of spices. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to make. Plus, it’s healthy, full of protein and fiber. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
How do you make white bean chili?
This white bean chili is absolutely loaded with flavor, easy to make, and super filling. Heat large pan over medium-high heat, then add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once oil is hot and shimmery, add cubed chicken. Sauté chicken approximately 3 to 5 minutes, then transfer chicken to plate or bowl and set aside.
What kind of beans do you use for chili?
Adjust the heat level to your preference by adding or toning down the spices or peppers. Beans: Cannellini or Great Northern beans are popular choices for this chili, with their creamy texture and mild taste. These beans provide a good dose of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients, like iron and potassium.
What are white beans called?
White beans are commonly referred to by several names, depending on the region and the specific variety of beans. In the United States, the most common name for white beans is simply “white beans.” However, they can also be called navy beans, white kidney beans, or cannellini beans.