Description & Tasting Notes

Navy beans, also known as haricot beans, are small, oval-shaped white legumes with a mild, creamy flavor and a soft texture when cooked. They are a staple in many global cuisines and are loved for their ability to absorb and enhance the flavors of the ingredients they’re cooked with. In baby food, navy beans provide a subtle richness and protein boost without overpowering other ingredients.

Vitamins & Minerals

Navy beans are a nutrient-rich legume that support early development with plant-based protein, iron for brain and energy support, and folate for cell growth. They also provide magnesium and phosphorus for strong bones, fiber for digestion, and B vitamins like B1 and B6 for energy and cognitive health.

Country of Origin

Navy beans are native to the Americas and were widely cultivated by Indigenous peoples before becoming a staple crop in North America. Today, they are commonly used in both traditional and modern dishes around the world.

Where It Is Typically Grown

Navy beans are primarily grown in the United States, particularly in states like Michigan, North Dakota, and Nebraska. They also grow well in parts of Canada, Brazil, and Argentina, where the climate allows for a warm growing season.

Ideas On How to Grow it in a Home Garden

Navy beans are relatively easy to grow at home. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and should be planted after the last frost. Use a trellis or allow them to sprawl if space permits. Once the pods mature and dry on the vine, the beans can be harvested, shelled, and stored.

Cultural Information

Navy beans have been a staple in American kitchens for centuries. They’re famously used in U.S. Navy rations—hence the name—but have also made their way into global dishes such as Brazilian feijão, French cassoulet, and Caribbean stews. Their soft texture and neutral taste make them versatile for a variety of culinary traditions.