An Extravaganza of Dry and Shelling Beans: 17 Top Picks for Your Garden

If you’re tired of the mundane selection of processed foods at the supermarket and crave the simple pleasures of a beautiful variety of shelling or dry beans, it might be time to flex those resourceful gardening skills of yours. Growing your own beans not only allows you to explore new flavors and textures but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy unique varieties that you might never find elsewhere.

If you’re ready to embark on a bean-filled journey in your garden, brace yourself for the exciting world of dry and shelling beans. With a multitude of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect variety. Fear not, as I’ve curated a list of 17 exceptional types of beans that are not only delicious but also versatile enough to be used in a variety of dishes.

Before we dive into the beantastic buffet of options, let’s take a quick look at some key factors to consider when selecting the right cultivar for your garden:
– Species and growth habit: Whether it’s a pole or bush variety.
– Best uses: Dry, shelling, or fresh snaps.
– Color and taste: What to expect when cooking.
– Tolerance to weather conditions: Cool, heat, or drought.
– Disease resistance: Protection against common bean ailments.
– Days to maturity: Plan your garden schedule accordingly.
– Seed sources: Where to find these unique cultivars.

Now, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and explore the fascinating world of dry and shelling beans:

1. Arikara Yellow

With a rich historical background, the ‘Arikara Yellow’ dry bean variety offers early maturity, drought resistance, and excellent storage capabilities. This heirloom cultivar, grown by Native Americans in the US, boasts creamy-textured seeds that are perfect for preparing baked beans. Seek out this uncommon variety from specialty seed sellers to add a touch of historical flavor to your meals.

2. Calypso

If you’re looking for a visually striking addition to your garden, consider the ‘Calypso’ dry bean variety. Its bicolored seeds, resembling a yin yang symbol, offer a mild flavor and a delightful creamy texture when cooked. These beans are perfect for enhancing your soups and adding a pop of color to your dishes.

3. Cherokee Trail of Tears

Embrace the tradition and resilience of the ‘Cherokee Trail of Tears’ dry bean variety, which carries a powerful history of the Cherokee nation. This pole cultivar produces flavorful black beans that are ideal for Tex-Mex dishes and hearty soups. Honor the cultural heritage of this cultivar by including it in your garden.

4. Christmas

Break free from the lima bean stereotype with the ‘Christmas’ dry bean variety, known for its nutty flavor and chestnut-like texture. These festive beans, with their creamy white and burgundy patterns, can elevate your Mediterranean-inspired dishes with their unique taste. Explore the versatility of these beans beyond the typical culinary boundaries.

5. Eclipse

For a taste of early maturity and disease resistance, look no further than the ‘Eclipse’ black turtle bean variety. Perfect for Cuban or Brazilian cuisine, these beans offer a rich flavor and a glossy finish when cooked. Embrace the simplicity and productivity of this cultivar in your garden for a bountiful harvest.

6. Flagrano

Embark on a flavor journey with the ‘Flagrano’ flageolet bean variety, known for its subtle taste and creamy texture. These beans, popular in French cuisine, can add a touch of elegance to your dishes with their delicate flavor profile. Embrace the culinary versatility of flageolet beans and elevate your cooking skills with this unique cultivar.

7. Good Mother Stallard

Indulge in the maternal goodness of the ‘Good Mother Stallard’ dry bean variety, named after a Virginia gardener. These maroon and white mottled seeds offer a rich flavor and dense texture, perfect for veggie burgers or hearty baked beans. Let the spirit of ‘Good Mother Stallard’ guide you in your culinary creations.

8. Hidatsa Shield

Uncover the intricate patterns of the ‘Hidatsa Shield’ dry bean variety, inspired by the traditions of the Hidatsa peoples. With its unique coloration and excellent flavor, these beans are a versatile addition to your kitchen. Explore the resilience and beauty of this cultivar in your garden for a rewarding harvest.

9. Jacob’s Cattle

Experience the nostalgia of campfire cooking with the ‘Jacob’s Cattle’ kidney bean variety, perfect for traditional baked beans. These maroon and white speckled beans offer a meaty texture and rich flavor that can elevate your culinary creations. Embrace the heritage and flavors of this Northeastern cultivar in your cooking.

10. Mayflower

Delve into the origins of the ‘Mayflower’ dry bean variety, shrouded in mystery and intrigue. With its small, flavorful seeds and disease resistance, this cultivar is a reliable addition to your garden. Explore the historical and culinary significance of ‘Mayflower’ beans in your dishes for a touch of heritage.

11. Painted Pony

Embark on a flavor journey to the Southwest with the ‘Painted Pony’ dry bean variety, known for its nutty flavor and creamy texture. These beans, with their brown and white markings, offer a versatile ingredient for your culinary creations. Embrace the unique flavors and textures of ‘Painted Pony’ beans in your dishes.

12. Pinkeye Purple Hull

Expand your palate with the ‘Pinkeye Purple Hull’ cowpea variety, perfect for replacing traditional black-eyed peas. With their tender texture and earthy flavor, these beans are a versatile addition to your Southern cuisine. Embrace the rich flavors of the South with ‘Pinkeye Purple Hull’ and add a unique touch to your favorite dishes.

13. Scarlet Emperor

Indulge in the versatility and beauty of the ‘Scarlet Emperor’ runner bean variety, perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden. With its scarlet flowers and flavorful seeds, this cultivar is a delightful addition to your kitchen. Embrace the beauty and taste of ‘Scarlet Emperor’ beans in your culinary creations for a vibrant and flavorful experience.

14. Silver Cloud

Explore the simplicity and elegance of the ‘Silver Cloud’ cannellini bean variety, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your dishes. With its nutty flavor and smooth texture, these beans are a versatile addition to your pantry. Embrace the subtle flavors of ‘Silver Cloud’ beans in your soups and stews for a comforting and satisfying experience.

15. Taylor’s Dwarf Horticultural

Embrace the colorful and flavorful ‘Taylor’s Dwarf Horticultural’ borlotti bean variety, perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden. With its bright pinkish-red splashes and creamy texture, these beans are a versatile ingredient for your dishes. Explore the unique flavors and textures of ‘Taylor’s Dwarf Horticultural’ beans in your culinary creations for a vibrant and flavorful experience.

16. Tiger’s Eye

Indulge in the mesmerizing patterns and flavors of the ‘Tiger’s Eye’ dry bean variety, perfect for adding a touch of intrigue to your dishes. With its amber and maroon stripes, these beans offer a unique flavor profile and creamy texture. Explore the beauty and taste of ‘Tiger’s Eye’ beans in your culinary creations for a delightful and flavorful experience.

17. Windsor

Embark on a cold-weather-friendly journey with the ‘Windsor’ fava bean variety, perfect for adding a touch of heartiness to your dishes. With its giant seeds and meaty texture, these beans are a versatile addition to your garden. Explore the unique flavors and textures of ‘Windsor’ favas in your culinary creations for a comforting and satisfying experience.

As you explore these diverse and flavorful dry and shelling beans, remember to embrace the rich history and culinary significance of each cultivar. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your dishes or introduce new flavors to your kitchen, these beans offer a delightful and rewarding culinary experience. So, gather your seeds, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a beantastic journey in your garden!