Calories in Beans, great northern
Great northern beans hold their shape better than navy beans but mash smoother than kidney beans, making them the structural backbone of classic French cassoulet.
What makes beans so powerful?
Great northern beans were popularized in the early 20th century, notably by the USDA, and became a staple due to their excellent drying qualities. Their thin seed coat compared to navy beans allows them to absorb surrounding broth deeply. The cell walls of these legumes contain pectin, a complex polysaccharide that physically strengthens when calcium and magnesium ions bind to it. This is exactly why cooking beans in hard water can keep them tough indefinitely, as the calcium cross-links the pectin, preventing the cells from softening. Conversely, adding an acidic ingredient like tomatoes too early in the cooking process also reinforces this rigid pectin structure. To achieve the creamy interior and intact exterior that great northern beans are prized for, they should be cooked in soft water with salt added early. The sodium ions replace the calcium and magnesium in the pectin, allowing the skins to soften properly while the interior gelatinizes.
Great northern beans excel in slow-cooked soups, stews, and the French dish cassoulet, where their ability to hold shape under heat is essential. For the best texture, soak dried beans overnight in salted water to help soften the skins. Avoid adding acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar until the beans are fully tender, as acid strengthens pectin and halts softening. Pair them with whole grains like brown rice to create a complete protein profile, providing all essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and cellular function.
Calories by Serving Size
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Beans, great northern?
Beans, great northern contains 117 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 RACC (130g) provides 152 calories. It is a moderate-calorie food that can fit into most healthy diets.
How much protein does Beans, great northern have?
Beans, great northern provides 7.03g of protein per 100g, which is 14% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is not a primary protein source.
How many carbs are in Beans, great northern?
Beans, great northern contains 19.3g of carbohydrates per 100g .
Is Beans, great northern good for weight loss?
Beans, great northern has 117 kcal per 100g, which is relatively moderate. It can fit into a weight-loss diet as long as portion sizes are managed.
How do I track Beans, great northern calories accurately?
The easiest way to track beans is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.