What are cranberry beans?

Benefits Of Cranberry Beans

What are cranberry beans?

You love digging in to the cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving and sprinkling dried cranberries on your oatmeal every morning - but have you ever tried cranberry beans? If you’re confused, let me clarify. These beans are not related to the tart red berries - they’re actually named for the beautiful cranberry-colored streaks found on the outer layer of each shell.

Why should I eat cranberry beans?

The benefits of cranberry beans are numerous - each half-cup serving (cooked) provides close to 40% of your daily fiber, 10 grams of protein, as well as iron and calcium. Their protein and fiber content makes them a filling addition to any meal and a welcome complement to your healthy diet.

How to prepare them

Popular in Italian cooking (where they’re better known as “borlotti” beans), these beans have a mild, sweet and nutty flavor and satisfyingly creamy texture. This makes them a perfect ingredient in salads, soups, stews, spreads (hummus, anyone?), dips and other dishes. To prepare cooked cranberry beans, be sure to soak them overnight, then drain and rinse. Add 1 cup of cranberry beans to 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 hour before serving.