Cranberry shelling beans AKA frijol Cargamanto Rojo are members of the Phaseolus vulgaris family of beans. Cranberry shelling beans are known as a multipurpose bean as they can be harvested fresh in pod or left to dry on the vine and utilized as a dried bean, where the beans are designated as a legume. Cranberry shelling beans are also commonly mistaken for Borlotti Shelling beans, an Italian bean whose characteristics are near identical.

Cranberry shelling beans are distinguished by their plumped pods speckled in red and yellow tones when mature and by their oval and curved ivory colored beans dappled in cranberry markings. Raw cranberry shelling beans are are typically lean, grassy and starchy while cooked beans develop a nutty, rich and meaty flavor and plush creamy texture.

Serving Ideas

Cranberry shelling beans are a versatile bean designated as a fresh or dried bean. Once shelled, they can be pickled, canned or frozen. Cooked cranberry shelling beans absorb accompanying flavors, thus are transformed by savory and bold companion ingredients. Simmer in chicken stock until tender and creamy, pair with roasted squash, toss with crispy gnocchi or torn pasta, stew into a ragout with fresh corn and tomatoes or puree with sorrel into a soup. Mix cooked cranberry shelling beans with chopped arugula, homemade croutons and chorizo for a hearty main dish. Other complimentary pairings include bacon or pancetta, smoked olive oil, artichoke hearts, citrus, both mild and hot chiles, fresh and cooked tomatoes, basil and cilantro, aged pecorino, feta, fennel, leeks and fried eggs. Dried cranberry beans must be soaked overnight before using and will require twice the cooking time. Cooked cranberry shelling beans loose their markings and become tan in color.

Geography/History

Cranberry shelling beans are an heirloom variety native to Colombia. International trade routes led to the exchange of many cranberry shelling beans and dozens of new cultivars developed by farmers. Old World cranberry shelling beans are known as a French Horticultural bean. The most notable and improved variety of cranberry shelling beans is known as "Crimson" which was developed to be disease resistant. Most cranberry shelling beans are grown in California, where temperate climates are met with hot summers for maximum production. Though a dual-purpose variety, 95% of the bean crops are harvested and sold as a dried bean.

Seasons/Availability

Cranberry shelling beans are available in late summer through fall.