How to Cook Navy Beans from Scratch

There are several ways of how to cook navy beans to tender, we will explain them all. From in a slow cooker to on the stove and pressure cooker quickly you can choose which works best for your meal. Similar look to great Northern Beans these can be used in soups and baked beans too.

How Long to Cook Navy Beans

We will explain the old fashioned stovetop method below which takes about 30 minutes. Instant Pot Cooking Times for Beans is about the same but in that case there is NO soaking required. A hard no for some people since that sometimes makes them harder to digest, but quick for sure. And the Crockpot will take you all day.

Also known as white beans, these are a versatile legume that can be used in soups, stews, salads, Beans and Weenies and various other dishes. The cooking time for navy beans depends on how you plan to use them and whether you are starting with dried or canned beans. Here are the basic guidelines;

How to Cook Navy Beans on the Stove

While not required, overnight soaking dried navy beans and Mung Beans can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. Soak them in cold water for at least 4-8 hours or overnight is best. Drain and rinse before cooking in any of the below methods and then you are set to go. Stovetop is 25-30 minuts.

Of course the fastest method of all is to use canned. Canned navy beans are already soaked and pre-cooked, so they are already tender. You only need to heat them through for your recipe. Typically, simmering them for 5-10 minutes in a sauce, soup, or stew is plenty long enough. All you need to prep is;

1. Water for soaking
2. A bag of dry beans
3. Colander is helpful for rinsing purposes to remove any debris or rocks
4. Salted water for boiling
5. Dutch oven or large pot if using the stove

No matter what type you want to use in your recipe or side dish the steps remain the same. This is about identical to how to cook garbanzo beans too. There is a way of how to quick soak dry beans if you are in a hurry. You just;

Put the pot with beans and water on the stove over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, let the beans cook for 2-3 minutes. Bring to a boil vigorously for this short period. After the brief boiling time, remove from heat source. Cover the pot with a lid and let the beans sit in the hot water for about 1-2 hours.

How to Cook Dry Navy Beans

If you have all day and want a complete hands off approach this is how to cook dry beans in Crockpot. Low and slow is key and by far the easiest method of all if you ask me. Just soak, rinse, set it and forget it really. I add a bunch of seasonings and even a can of diced chiles is a great add in there. On the stove you;

• Rinse dry beans to remove debris, add into a bowl.
• Cover with cool water + 2″ above that and set on countertop to soak overnight.
• Drain water, rinse soaked beans and add into a pot on the stovetop over medium high heat.
• Pour in water (and add salt) or broth (no salt required) for more flavor.
• Once it reaches a boil, lower to medium heat and cover.
• Cook for 25-30 minutes or until they are as tender as you’d like. Cook Baked Beans in Oven at 350.

How to Quick Soak Dry Beans

Put the pot with beans and water on the stove over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, let the beans cook for 2-3 minutes. Allow them to boil vigorously for this short period. After the brief boiling time, remove the pot from the heat source. Cover the pot with a lid and let the beans sit in the hot water for about 1-2 hours

Now what if you don’t just want a side but rather you’d like to make this into a full on meal, I get it. Mind as well make dinner out of this with a few other ingredients I say. Our favorite I would say is our Pressure Cooker Navy Bean Soup here. With vegetables in there and diced precooked meat if I have it it’s a healthy cheap meal.

How to Cook Navy Beans with Ham Hocks

How to add flavor to navy beans is simple if you ask me. Add ham hocks into the water when cooking, after being soaked. That way you not only get meat you can scrape off and into the mix but the smoky flavors leach out into the cooking liquid and flavor the beans. Then scrape meat off, shred and include in the dish.

Dry Navy Bean Recipes

These are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Here are some delicious choices like creating a comforting soup by simmering soaked or canned navy beans with leftover ham, vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in a flavorful broth. Add some herbs and spices for extra taste and you’re ready.

1. Make classic Instant Pot Baked Beans with Dry Beans by cooking in a sweet and savory sauce made from ingredients like molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard. Pressure cook them until they’re tender and flavorful.
2. Create a hearty bean salad with these, chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and red onions), and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s perfect for picnics and potlucks.
3. Blend cooked beans with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to make a creamy version of hummus with canned beans. Serve it as a dip with pita bread or vegetable sticks.
4. Combine navy beans with Italian sausage, tomatoes, and herbs to make a hearty stew that’s perfect for cold weather.
5. Make a casserole by layering beans with sautéed onions, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
6. Create a filling burrito filling by mixing cooked some once tender with rice, sautéed vegetables, and your choice of seasonings. Wrap it all up in tortillas with toppings like cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
7. Combine with spinach, garlic, and a vegetable or chicken broth to make a nutritious and low-calorie soup.
8. Add to your favorite chili recipe for an extra dose of protein and fiber. They pair well with ground beef, turkey, or a venison chili.
9. Mix with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a refreshing summer salad.
10. Blend with roasted red peppers, garlic, and spices to make a creamy bean dip. Serve it with crackers, pita bread, or vegetable sticks.
11. Combine with diced ham, onions, and a creamy sauce. Top it with breadcrumbs and bake until it’s hot and bubbly.

Including Peruvian Beans and these that can add protein and fiber to your meals. Whether you prefer soups, salads, casseroles, or dips, there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate them into your recipes of all kinds.