Whole food · Legumes and Legume Products

Photo: Wikipedia
These are whole, dried beans with a pale tan hue, offering a firm, slightly starchy texture that softens into a creamy, nutty bite when cooked. They are a powerhouse of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, providing a substantial, low-fat foundation for countless dishes.
People love them for their mild, earthy flavor that acts as a perfect canvas for absorbing spices and broths, and their incredible versatility in soups, stews, salads, and dips across global cuisines.
They contain oligosaccharides that can cause gas and bloating in some individuals. To counteract this, soak them thoroughly in water for 8-12 hours, discard the soaking water, and cook them until very tender. They also contain lectins, which are neutralized by proper soaking and boiling.
The specific nutritional profile you provided (0 kcal, 24.6g protein) is for the beans in a completely dehydrated, powder-like state, which is not how they are typically sold or consumed.
| Water | 0.00 g |
| Protein | 24.6 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 1.3 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 4.3 g |
| Starch | 37.6 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 98.0 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 7.3 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 178 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 571 mg |
| Potassium, K | 1230 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 3.2 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.93 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 1.7 mg |
| Sulfur, S | 228 mg |
| Nickel, Ni | 120 ug |
| Molybdenum, Mo | 534 ug |
| Cobalt, Co | 58.5 ug |
| Boron, B | 931 ug |
What's the difference between these and other white beans like cannellini or navy beans?
They are often used interchangeably, but 'Light Tan Beans' is a broad descriptor. Cannellini beans are larger and kidney-shaped, navy beans are smaller and oval, and Great Northern beans are medium-sized and slightly flattened. Their flavors and textures are similar, but size and shape can affect cooking time and dish presentation.
How long do they take to cook from dry?
After an 8-12 hour soak, they typically require 60-90 minutes of simmering until tender. A pressure cooker can reduce this time to about 25-30 minutes.
Can I eat them straight from the can?
Yes, canned beans are fully cooked and safe to eat after rinsing to remove excess sodium. They are a convenient shortcut for salads, quick soups, and dips.