General Information

• the white bean is large, round and not very starchy - ideal for stews and cassoulet
• the white kidney bean is large and square at the ends
• cannellini are small white beans
• the navy bean or white pea bean, is kidney shaped and about the size of a pea

Culinary file

• requires long soaking - usually overnight
• very mild flavor
• somewhat firm texture even when cooked: they should be cooked slowly and unhurriedly (2 to 6 hours, depending on the cooking method)