Beans and lentils are kitchen staples loved worldwide for their versatility, rich nutrition, and comforting heartiness—especially in the cooler months. At Gertrude Grocer, we proudly stock the popular Capriccio range of beans and lentils, offering you quality ingredients to create wholesome meals that satisfy and nourish.
Discover the Types of Beans & Lentils We Offer
The Capriccio range includes a variety of beans and lentils, each with its unique flavor, texture, and culinary uses:
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Red Lentils: Quick-cooking and slightly sweet, perfect for soups and dals.
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Green Lentils: Firm and peppery, ideal for salads and stews.
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Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): Nutty and creamy, versatile for hummus, curries, or salads.
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Cannellini Beans: Creamy white beans perfect for Italian-style soups and casseroles.
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Black Beans: Earthy and rich, great in Mexican and Caribbean dishes.
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Butter Beans: Buttery and soft, wonderful in Mediterranean recipes.
Nutritional Benefits of Beans and Lentils
Beans and lentils are nutritional powerhouses. They’re:
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High in protein: Ideal for vegetarians and anyone looking to boost plant-based protein.
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Rich in dietary fiber: Supports digestive health and promotes fullness.
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Low in fat: Heart-healthy and suitable for weight management.
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Packed with vitamins and minerals: Including iron, folate, potassium, and magnesium.
Eating beans regularly can help stabilize blood sugar levels, support heart health, and provide sustained energy.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beans & Lentils
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Soaking: While lentils cook quickly, beans like chickpeas and cannellini benefit from soaking overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
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Rinse well: Always rinse dried or canned beans to remove excess sodium and any residues.
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Season late: Add salt and acidic ingredients (like tomatoes or vinegar) towards the end of cooking to keep beans tender.
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Batch cook: Make large batches and refrigerate or freeze portions for easy meal prep.
5 Delicious Recipes Featuring Capriccio Beans & Lentils
1. Hearty Lentil Soup
A warming classic, this soup uses green lentils simmered with carrots, celery, and garlic in a rich vegetable broth. Finish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
2. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Combine chickpeas with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano for a refreshing lunch or side dish.
3. Slow-Cooked Bean Stew
Use cannellini or butter beans slow-cooked with smoky paprika, garlic, and roasted vegetables. Serve over creamy polenta or crusty bread for a filling meal.
4. Spiced Red Lentil Dal
A fragrant Indian-inspired dish with red lentils cooked in turmeric, cumin, and coriander, finished with fresh cilantro. Serve alongside rice or naan.
5. Black Bean Tacos
Mash black beans with garlic and cumin, then pile into warm tortillas with avocado, salsa, and fresh coriander for a quick and tasty dinner.
Shop the Capriccio Range at Gertrude Grocer
Find all these beans and lentils, along with everything you need to create wholesome, nourishing meals, at Gertrude Grocer. Whether you visit us in-store in Carlton or Kensington or shop online, our carefully selected Capriccio range ensures you cook with the best.