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Cranberry Beans
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Cranberry Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Cranberry Beans provides 127 kcal, 8.7g of protein, 23.7g of carbohydrates, and 7.5g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Cranberry beans are a variety of common beans known for their distinctive red and white mottled appearance. They are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Borlotti BeansRoman Beans
Scientific NamePhaseolus vulgaris
Region of OriginCentral and South America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories127 kcal
Water
67%
Fiber7.5g
Total32.9g
Protein
8.7g(26%)
Fats
0.5g(2%)
Carbohydrates
23.7g(72%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 1 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron2.9 mg (16%)
Magnesium45 mg (11%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Cranberry beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
High in dietary fiber, they promote digestive health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Rich in antioxidants, cranberry beans may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
They provide essential minerals like iron and magnesium, which are crucial for energy production and overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort if consuming large amounts of beans due to their high fiber content.
!Raw or undercooked beans contain toxins that can cause nausea; always cook thoroughly.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed when cooked thoroughly; soak overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cranberry beans that are firm and free from blemishes or cracks. They should have a vibrant color and a smooth surface.

How to Store

Store dried cranberry beans in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Cooked beans should be refrigerated and consumed within 5 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythBeans cause gas and should be avoided.
RealityWhile beans can cause gas, soaking and cooking them properly can reduce this effect significantly.
MythAll beans are the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent beans have varying nutrient profiles; cranberry beans are particularly high in fiber and protein.
MythYou can't eat beans if you're on a low-carb diet.
RealityBeans can be included in moderation on low-carb diets due to their high fiber content, which can aid in digestion.

Healthy Recipes

Cranberry Bean Salad with Avocado and Lime

A refreshing salad combining cranberry beans, creamy avocado, and zesty lime for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked cranberry beans, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Cranberry Bean and Quinoa Bowl

A hearty bowl filled with protein-rich cranberry beans and quinoa, topped with roasted vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine the quinoa, cranberry beans, and roasted vegetables, and serve warm.

Cranberry Bean Hummus

A unique twist on traditional hummus using cranberry beans for a colorful and nutritious dip.

Ingredients
  • 1 can cranberry beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt to taste
  • Paprika for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine cranberry beans, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency.
  3. 3. Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with paprika, and serve with veggie sticks or pita chips.

Cranberry Bean Tacos with Mango Salsa

Delicious tacos filled with seasoned cranberry beans and topped with a fresh mango salsa.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat the cranberry beans with cumin, chili powder, and salt until warmed through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by filling tortillas with cranberry beans and topping with mango salsa.

Cranberry Bean and Spinach Soup

A nourishing soup featuring cranberry beans and fresh spinach, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth, cranberry beans, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in fresh spinach and simmer for 5 minutes before serving.

Cranberry Bean and Sweet Potato Hash

A flavorful hash combining roasted sweet potatoes and cranberry beans for a filling breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 large sweet potato, diced
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Roast for 25 minutes until tender, then mix in the cranberry beans and onion.
  3. 3. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Cranberry Bean Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of cranberry beans, rice, and spices.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cranberry beans, brown rice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture, place in a baking dish, and pour tomato sauce over the top. Bake for 30 minutes.

Cranberry Bean and Kale Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring cranberry beans and kale, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked cranberry beans
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add kale and cook until wilted, then stir in cranberry beans and soy sauce.
  3. 3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Cranberry Bean Burgers

Healthy and hearty burgers made from cranberry beans, perfect for grilling or pan-frying.

Ingredients
  • 1 can cranberry beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the cranberry beans and mix in breadcrumbs, onion, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Cook on a grill or skillet for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Cranberry Bean and Feta Dip

A creamy dip made with cranberry beans and feta cheese, perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients
  • 1 can cranberry beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, blend cranberry beans, feta, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. 2. Transfer to a serving bowl and chill before serving with crackers or veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are cranberry beans?

Cranberry beans are a type of common bean known for their unique red and white speckled appearance and creamy texture.

How do I cook cranberry beans?

Soak the beans overnight, then boil them for about 1-1.5 hours until tender.

Are cranberry beans healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Can I eat cranberry beans raw?

No, raw cranberry beans contain toxins and should always be cooked before consumption.

How can I store cooked cranberry beans?

Store cooked cranberry beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What dishes can I make with cranberry beans?

They can be used in soups, stews, salads, and as a side dish.

Do cranberry beans have a lot of carbohydrates?

Yes, they are relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily from complex carbohydrates.

Are cranberry beans gluten-free?

Yes, cranberry beans are naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten intolerance.