Navy Beans
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Navy Beans

Phaseolus vulgaris

Clinical Encyclopedia

Navy beans are small, oval-shaped white beans that are rich in protein and fiber. They are commonly used in soups, stews, and baked dishes.

Also known as:
Haricot blanc (France)Phaseolus vulgaris (Scientific)
Scientific NamePhaseolus vulgaris
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories140 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber9g
Total34.5g
Protein
9g(26%)
Fats
0.5g(1%)
Carbohydrates
25g(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 K2.9 µg (2%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.2 mg (17%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.6 mg (4%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.2 mg (4%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Folate130 µg (33%)
Choline30 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0.6 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.1 mgVitamin B12: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium50 mg (4%)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Magnesium40 mg (10%)
Phosphorus150 mg (12%)
Potassium400 mg (11%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese0.5 mg (25%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.5 µg

Health Benefits

Navy beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great choice for vegetarians and vegans.
They are high in dietary fiber, which can help regulate digestion and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak overnight and cook until tender. They can be added to soups, salads, or served as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose beans that are uniform in color and free from cracks or blemishes.

How to Store

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

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Digestive health supportHeart health promotion
Main Applications
Weight management
Blood sugar control
Bioactive Compounds
Pectin

Helps to lower cholesterol levels and improve gut health.

Flavonoids

Antioxidant properties that may reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Cooked, Canned, Pureed
Did you know?

"Navy beans were a staple food for sailors, hence their name."

Myths vs Realities

MythEating beans will make you gassy.
RealityWhile beans can cause gas, soaking and cooking them properly can reduce this effect.
MythBeans are not a complete protein.
RealityBeans can be combined with grains to form a complete protein.
MythCanned beans are unhealthy.
RealityCanned beans can be a healthy option if low in sodium and without added sugars.

Healthy Recipes

Navy Bean and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining protein-rich navy beans and quinoa, tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked navy beans, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled.

Spicy Navy Bean Chili

A hearty and spicy chili made with navy beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked navy beans
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add the bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, and salt, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and navy beans, simmer for 20 minutes, and serve hot.

Navy Bean and Spinach Soup

A nourishing soup featuring navy beans and fresh spinach, seasoned with herbs for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add the vegetable broth, navy beans, thyme, salt, and pepper, bringing to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in the spinach, simmer for 5 minutes, and serve warm.

Navy Bean Hummus

A creamy and nutritious hummus made from navy beans, perfect as a dip or spread.

Ingredients
  • 1 can navy beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 clove garlic
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine navy beans, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole-grain pita.

Navy Bean and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring navy beans and a variety of vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan and add the mixed vegetables, cooking until tender.
  2. 2. Stir in the navy beans, soy sauce, and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Navy Bean Tacos

Healthy tacos filled with spiced navy beans and topped with fresh salsa and avocado.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat the navy beans with taco seasoning until warmed through.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by filling tortillas with navy beans, avocado, salsa, and cilantro.

Navy Bean and Sweet Potato Mash

A nutritious mash combining navy beans and sweet potatoes, seasoned with herbs for a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potato cubes until tender, then drain.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the sweet potatoes and mix in navy beans, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a side dish.

Navy Bean and Kale Salad

A nutrient-packed salad featuring navy beans and kale, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 2 cups kale, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the kale, navy beans, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Navy Bean and Brown Rice Casserole

A wholesome casserole made with navy beans, brown rice, and vegetables, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a baking dish, combine navy beans, brown rice, mixed vegetables, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and serve hot.

Navy Bean Breakfast Bowl

A hearty breakfast bowl featuring navy beans, sautéed spinach, and a poached egg for a protein-packed start to the day.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked navy beans
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 avocado, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the spinach until wilted.
  2. 2. In a separate pot, poach the egg to your liking.
  3. 3. In a bowl, layer navy beans, sautéed spinach, and top with the poached egg and avocado slices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are navy beans gluten-free?

Yes, navy beans are naturally gluten-free.

How can I incorporate navy beans into my diet?

You can add them to soups, salads, or use them in dips.

What is the best way to cook navy beans?

Soak them overnight and then boil until tender.

Can navy beans help with weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber content can help you feel full longer.

Are navy beans high in protein?

Yes, they are a great source of plant-based protein.

How should I store cooked navy beans?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I eat navy beans raw?

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

What nutrients are in navy beans?

They are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and various vitamins and minerals.