Calories in Cranberry Beans: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Cranberry beans, also known as borlotti beans, are a creamy, mildly nutty legume widely used in Italian and Portuguese cooking. One cup of cooked cranberry beans provides roughly 16.5 grams of protein, 17.7 grams of fiber, and is a good source of folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Their distinctive speckled appearance fades during cooking, but their rich, creamy texture makes them a favorite in soups, stews, and salads.

Calories by serving size:

Cranberry beans are particularly high in folate, providing about 72% of the daily value per cup, which supports healthy cell division and red blood cell production. They also supply notable amounts of phosphorus and manganese, contributing to bone health and energy metabolism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do cranberry beans compare to pinto beans?

Cranberry beans and pinto beans are closely related and share a similar appearance, but cranberry beans have a slightly creamier texture and milder flavor. Nutritionally, they are nearly identical, with cranberry beans offering marginally more fiber per cup (17.7 g vs about 15.4 g). Either bean can be substituted for the other in most recipes without any significant difference.

How are cranberry beans used in Italian cooking?

Cranberry beans are a staple in classic Italian dishes such as pasta e fagioli, minestrone, and ribollita. Their creamy texture allows them to break down slightly during slow cooking, naturally thickening soups and stews. They are also served simply as a side dish dressed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.

How much protein and fiber do cranberry beans provide?

One cup of cooked cranberry beans delivers approximately 16.5 grams of protein and 17.7 grams of fiber. The fiber content alone covers about 63% of the daily recommended intake, making them one of the higher-fiber legumes available. Combined with their protein, cranberry beans are exceptionally satiating and supportive of digestive health.

Are cranberry beans the same as borlotti beans?

Yes, cranberry beans and borlotti beans are the same legume. The name "cranberry bean" is more commonly used in North America, while "borlotti" is the Italian term widely used in Europe. They may also be referred to as Roman beans or shell beans in some regions.

What is the difference between fresh and dried cranberry beans?

Fresh cranberry beans, available in their pods during late summer, cook more quickly (about 30 minutes) and have a slightly more delicate flavor than dried. Dried cranberry beans require soaking overnight and a longer cooking time of 60 to 90 minutes, but they are available year-round and store well for months. Nutritionally, both forms are very similar once cooked, though canned versions may have added sodium.