Aussie chefs reveal their favourite ways to use affordable tinned white beans
When people think of pantry staples, items like pasta, rice, and tomato paste usually come to mind. However, Australian chefs say the humble tin of white beans deserves a place on that list thanks to its affordability, versatility, and nutritional value.
Available for less than a dollar at some supermarkets, tinned white beans such as butter beans and cannellini beans can be used in a wide variety of dishes, making them a budget-friendly ingredient for home cooks.
Ahead of the 2026 Good Food & Wine Show, Australian chefs Brendan Pang, Andrew Ballard, and Vincent Yeow Lim shared their favourite ways to turn a simple tin of beans into a delicious meal.
Brendan Pang, a cook, author, and former MasterChef contestant, says white beans are inexpensive and highly versatile. One of his favourite recipes is a creamy Mauritian-style curry made with butter beans.
He sautés onion, garlic, and ginger before adding curry powder, tomatoes, coconut milk, and the beans. The result is a rich and comforting dish that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbread.
Andrew Ballard, captain of the Australian Culinary Team, describes white beans as the perfect ingredient for adding substance to meals. He uses them to thicken soups, enrich curries, and even create gluten-free stuffing.
His favourite recipe is a white bean dip made by blending drained beans with garlic, olive oil, tahini, and lemon juice. The creamy spread can be enjoyed with bread, roasted vegetables, or roast chicken.
Meanwhile, chef and restaurateur Vincent Yeow Lim, known online as “The Wolf of Wok Street,” praises white beans as a filling and affordable pantry essential.
His preferred method is simple: braise the beans with garlic, onion, and a little stock. The dish can be served on toast, alongside grilled meat, or enjoyed on its own as a quick and satisfying meal.
The chefs agree that tinned white beans are an inexpensive kitchen staple that can easily transform basic ingredients into tasty, nutritious meals.