Garbanzo Beans vs. Cannellini Beans — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on November 12, 2023
Garbanzo Beans, also known as chickpeas, are round and beige, while Cannellini Beans are white kidney beans with a slightly curved shape.
Difference Between Garbanzo Beans and Cannellini Beans
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Garbanzo Beans and Cannellini Beans are both legumes, but they vary in their origin, texture, taste, and culinary uses. Garbanzo Beans, commonly known as chickpeas, trace their roots to the Middle Eastern region. They are small, round, and beige in color. When cooked, Garbanzo Beans possess a somewhat nutty flavor and a grainy texture, making them ideal for dishes like hummus and falafel.
Cannellini Beans, on the other hand, hail from Italy and are often referred to as white kidney beans due to their off-white color and slightly curved shape. They have a creamy texture and a subtle, earthy flavor when cooked. Owing to their smooth consistency, Cannellini Beans are frequently utilized in Italian soups, stews, and salads.
The nutritional composition of Garbanzo Beans and Cannellini Beans also sets them apart. While both beans are rich in protein and fiber, Garbanzo Beans have a slightly higher iron and magnesium content. Cannellini Beans, conversely, boast a higher calcium and potassium content.
In terms of culinary versatility, both beans hold their own. Garbanzo Beans are central to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, featured prominently in dishes such as chana masala and tagine. Cannellini Beans are predominantly found in European dishes, especially those from the Italian repertoire, such as minestrone and ribollita.
Comparison Chart
Also Known As
Chickpeas
White kidney beans
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Origin
Middle East
Italy
Color
Beige
Off-white
Texture
Grainy
Creamy
Common Culinary Use
Hummus, falafel, chana masala
Minestrone, ribollita, Italian soups and salads
Compare with Definitions
Garbanzo Beans
A type of legume originating from the Middle East.
Garbanzo Beans have been cultivated in the Middle East for thousands of years.
Cannellini Beans
Also known as white kidney beans.
She was searching for Cannellini Beans and found them labeled as white kidney beans.
Garbanzo Beans
High in protein, fiber, iron, and magnesium.
For a nutrient boost, he included Garbanzo Beans in his diet.
Cannellini Beans
A type of legume predominantly found in Italian cuisine.
Cannellini Beans are a staple in many traditional Italian dishes.
Garbanzo Beans
Possess a nutty flavor and grainy texture when cooked.
The grainy texture of the Garbanzo Beans made the hummus rich and flavorful.
Cannellini Beans
Off-white in color with a slightly curved shape.
The soup had Cannellini Beans, which added a creamy texture and off-white hue.
Garbanzo Beans
Round and beige in color.
The Garbanzo Beans contrasted nicely with the green spinach in the dish.
Cannellini Beans
Creamy texture and subtle earthy flavor when cooked.
The creamy Cannellini Beans complemented the spicy sausage in the stew.
Garbanzo Beans
Commonly known as chickpeas.
She added some Garbanzo Beans, or chickpeas, to her salad for added protein.
Cannellini Beans
Rich in protein, fiber, calcium, and potassium.
She chose Cannellini Beans for their high calcium and potassium content.
Common Curiosities
Which bean is also known as chickpea?
Garbanzo Beans are also known as chickpeas.
Which bean is central to Middle Eastern dishes?
Garbanzo Beans are central to many Middle Eastern dishes.
What is the color of Garbanzo Beans?
Garbanzo Beans are beige in color.
What is the texture of Garbanzo Beans when cooked?
Garbanzo Beans have a grainy texture when cooked.
Do Cannellini Beans have a creamy texture when cooked?
Yes, Cannellini Beans have a creamy texture when cooked.
Can I use Cannellini Beans in salads?
Yes, Cannellini Beans can be used in salads and provide a creamy texture.
Where do Cannellini Beans originate from?
Cannellini Beans originate from Italy.
Which bean has a nutty flavor?
Garbanzo Beans possess a somewhat nutty flavor when cooked.
Are Cannellini Beans common in Italian cuisine?
Yes, Cannellini Beans are a staple in many Italian dishes.
Can I use Garbanzo Beans to make hummus?
Yes, Garbanzo Beans are the primary ingredient in hummus.
Are Cannellini Beans rich in calcium?
Yes, Cannellini Beans have a higher calcium content compared to many other beans.
What is another name for Cannellini Beans?
Cannellini Beans are also known as white kidney beans.
Are Garbanzo Beans high in iron?
Yes, Garbanzo Beans have a slightly higher iron content than many other beans.
In which cuisine would you commonly find Cannellini Beans?
You would commonly find Cannellini Beans in European, especially Italian, cuisine.
Which bean is beige in color?
Garbanzo Beans are beige in color.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
