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Navigating the supermarket aisle for beans and pulses can be surprisingly complex. You're faced with a choice between the convenience of canned, the premium quality of jarred and the economy of dried. As a home cook, you want to find the right option that delivers on flavour, nutrition and suitability for your favourite recipes, whether it's a hearty stew or a vibrant curry.
As the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you find products that fit your needs. This guide cuts through the clutter, offering practical advice and highlighting some excellent choices to help you stock your pantry with confidence.
Before we look at specific products, let's cover a few key points to consider when you buy pulses online or in-store.
The choice between pre-cooked and dried beans often comes down to time and texture.
The ingredients list is your best friend. For canned or jarred beans, the simplest lists are often the best—just beans, water and perhaps a little salt. If you prefer to manage your own seasoning, look for "no added salt" on the label. For those seeking specific agricultural standards, products like organic borlotti beans provide assurance that they have been grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers.
Different beans have unique characteristics that make them suitable for specific cuisines. Creamy, tender beans are ideal for Italian soups and stews, while firmer beans hold their shape well in curries and salads. All varieties are excellent sources of plant-based vegan protein and are considered high fibre legumes, making them a cornerstone of a balanced diet. Considering what you plan to cook is the first step in choosing the right beans for stews and curries.
Here are three standout options that cater to different culinary needs, from quick Italian meals to authentic Indian curries.
Why It Stands Out These organic borlotti beans are prepared in Italy and packed in a simple mix of beans and water. Their standout feature is their incredibly soft and creamy texture, which makes them ideal for blending into soups or gently stirring into stews where they add body and richness. With no added sugar or salt, they provide a clean, natural flavour base for your cooking.
Pros
Who is it for? Health-conscious home cooks who want a quick and authentic ingredient for Italian-inspired dishes. They are particularly well-suited for anyone looking to add protein and fibre to their meals without extra prep time.
Why It Stands Out These jarred carlin peas are a celebration of British-grown pulses, produced in collaboration with Hodmedod. Carlin peas, also known as black badgers, have a distinctive nutty flavour and a delicate texture that sets them apart from more common beans. According to the brand, they are slowly cooked and jarred without additives, preserving their natural qualities. This makes them a premium choice for those looking to explore heritage ingredients.
Pros
Who is it for? Foodies and environmentally-conscious cooks who appreciate provenance and are eager to try unique, flavourful ingredients. They are excellent in stews, dhals or simply roasted as a snack.
Why It Stands Out Heera Kala Chana, or dried black chickpeas, are an essential ingredient for authentic Indian cooking. Unlike their canned counterparts, these dried beans allow you to achieve the perfect firm, hearty texture required for classic dishes like chana masala. Their earthy, nutty flavour provides a robust foundation that pairs beautifully with aromatic spices. This is the choice for cooks who value tradition and control.
Pros
Who is it for? Home cooks dedicated to making Indian dishes from scratch. If you enjoy the process of cooking and want to achieve a truly authentic flavour and texture in your curries, these kala chana are an excellent pantry staple.
If these options aren't quite what you're looking for, or if you need cannellini beans for a minestrone, red lentils for a dhal or black beans for a burrito, there are many more varieties to discover.
Explore our full collection of Beans & Pulses to find the perfect ingredient for your next meal.
Generally, yes. The nutritional profile of canned and dried beans is very similar in terms of protein and fibre. The primary difference can be the sodium content in canned varieties. However, by choosing canned beans no salt or rinsing standard canned beans thoroughly before use, you can easily manage your salt intake while still enjoying their convenience.
Cooking dried beans is straightforward. The general method is to soak them in plenty of cold water overnight (or for at least 8 hours). After soaking, drain the water, place the beans in a large pot with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until they are tender, which can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours depending on the bean. Once cooked, they are ready to be used in your recipe.
Finding a diverse range of pulses can be challenging in local shops. When you buy pulses online, you can access a much wider selection, from everyday chickpeas and kidney beans to more specialised varieties like organic borlotti beans and jarred carlin peas. Online retailers often provide detailed product information, making it easier to find exactly what you need for your recipes.