Many people often wonder if small white beans and navy beans are the same thing. The short answer is yes, small white beans and navy beans refer to the same type of bean. However, there are some key differences between the names that are worth exploring.
What are Small White Beans?
Small white beans are a variety of white bean that is small in size. They are oval shaped and mostly white in color with a cream hue. Some common names used to refer to small white beans include:
- Navy beans
- Yankee beans
- Pea beans
- Pearl haricot beans
The most common name is navy beans, due to their use as a food staple in the U.S. Navy in the early 20th century. The term “small white beans” helps differentiate them from other larger white bean varieties like cannellini or great northern beans.
What are Navy Beans?
Navy beans are a variety of white bean that is small and oval shaped. They earned the name “navy bean” due to being a staple food served on ships in the U.S. Navy in the early 1900s. Navy beans are the same species as the common bean plant, Phaseolus vulgaris. Key features of navy beans include:
- Small and oval shaped
- Bright white color with a hint of cream
- Mild flavor good for soups, baked beans, etc.
- Smooth, creamy texture when cooked
- High protein and fiber
Navy beans are used culinarily in dishes like navy bean soup, baked beans, and bean salads. They work well in long simmering dishes that allow their flavor to develop.
The Connection Between Small White Beans and Navy Beans
Small white beans and navy beans refer to the exact same type of bean. The terms are synonymous and interchangeable. Some key points showing the connection include:
- They belong to the same species of bean, Phaseolus vulgaris
- They have identical physical features – small, oval shaped, white
- They have the same mild taste and smooth, creamy texture
- They can be used interchangeably in recipes without any substitution needed
Essentially, small white beans are navy beans. The term “small white beans” is just a more descriptive name that specifies the size and color of the bean. But make no mistake – if a recipe calls for navy beans, you can use small white beans, and vice versa.
Differences Between the Names
While small white beans and navy beans refer to the same type of bean, there are some minor differences between the names:
| Small White Beans | Navy Beans |
|---|---|
| More descriptive name specifying size and color | Refers to historical use in U.S. Navy |
| Emphasizes they are smaller than other white beans | Does not indicate size |
| Common in everyday usage | More popular in commercial food production |
However, these differences are minor and do not change the fact they refer to the same bean. The names are used interchangeably in recipes, cooking, and food production.
Conclusion
Small white beans and navy beans are in fact the same type of bean. They are synonymous names for the same small, oval-shaped white bean. While the names have slightly different meanings, they can be used interchangeably without any substitution required. So next time you see navy beans called for in a recipe or find small white beans in the grocery store, be assured they are one and the same!