great northern beans
A medium-sized white bean, milder and slightly firmer than a navy bean but smaller than a cannellini, with a mild flavor and a texture that holds its shape a bit better than smaller white beans -- common in soups, stews, and bean salads where a bean that stays somewhat intact is wanted.
Buying guidance
Sold dried or canned; dried keeps its shape best through a long simmer, while canned is fully cooked and ready to add directly.
Substitutions
- Cannellini beans -- larger and creamier, a close and common substitute.
- Navy beans -- smaller and break down more easily, a reasonable substitute where a softer result is fine.
- Pinto or white kidney beans -- different in exact size and starchiness, but workable when a specific white bean isn't essential.
Tips & common mistakes
Cooking dried beans in already-salted or acidic (tomato-based) liquid from the start can slow their softening considerably -- getting them mostly tender in plain water first, then adding salt, tomatoes, or vinegar, gives more reliable results.
Storage
Dried beans keep for a year or more in a sealed container at room temperature. Canned beans keep for a year or more unopened; refrigerate leftovers after opening and use within a few days.