How To Cook Navy Beans On The Stove

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Navy Beans on the Stove

There’s nothing quite like a warm and flavorful bowl of navy beans cooked on the stove. These little powerhouses of nutrition are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, cooking navy beans on the stove is a simple and rewarding process. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step instructions to create a perfect pot of navy beans every time.

What are Navy Beans?

Navy beans, also known as haricot beans, are small, oval-shaped white beans named after their use as a staple food by the United States Navy. They have a mild flavor and a creamy texture, making them a popular choice for soups, stews, and side dishes.

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start cooking your navy beans, it’s important to prepare them properly:

1. Sorting: Spread your navy beans on a clean surface and remove any debris or discolored beans.
2. Rinsing: Rinse the beans under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
3. Soaking: There are two methods for soaking navy beans: overnight soaking or quick soaking.

Step 2: Soaking

Overnight Soaking:

1. Place your sorted and rinsed navy beans in a large bowl.
2. Add enough water to cover the beans by at least two inches.
3. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature overnight, or for at least 8 hours.

Quick Soaking:

1. In a large pot, add your sorted and rinsed navy beans.
2. Add enough water to cover the beans by at least two inches.
3. Bring the pot to a boil, then let it boil for 2 minutes.
4. Remove the pot from heat, cover it, and let it sit for 1 hour.

Step 3: Cooking

Once your navy beans are soaked, it’s time to cook them:

1. Drain and rinse your soaked navy beans.
2. In a large pot, add the beans and enough water or stock to cover them by about an inch.
3. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover it.
4. Simmer the beans for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they are tender.
5. While cooking, stir occasionally and skim off any foam that accumulates on the surface.
6. Season the beans with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs.

Tips and Variations

• For added flavor, you can sauté onions, garlic, and other aromatic vegetables before adding the soaked navy beans to the pot.
• Add a ham hock, bacon, or smoked sausage during the cooking process for a rich and smoky taste.
• Feel free to customize your navy bean dish by incorporating vegetables like carrots, celery, or tomatoes.
• For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the animal-derived ingredients with vegetable broth and omit the meat.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking navy beans on the stove, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Explore different recipes and experiment with various seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious navy bean creations!