Great Northern Bean

The Great Northern bean is a large, flat, kidney-shaped white variety of the common bean, Phaseolus vulgaris, with a mild, nutty flavor and a texture that holds its shape well during long cooking. It is especially popular in North American cooking, where it is a common addition to soups, stews and casseroles, its subtle flavor making it a versatile base for absorbing other ingredients. Like other common bean varieties, it is normally sold dried and requires soaking and slow cooking to become tender.