Description
Hearty Tuscan white beans merge rustic Italian countryside flavors with Ina Garten’s signature elegance. Guests savor rich, comforting ingredients that transport palates directly to Tuscany’s warm kitchens.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (454 g) dried white cannellini beans
- 4 c (960 mL) chopped fennel, stalks, fronds, and core removed (2 large)
- 2 c (480 mL) chopped carrots (4 carrots)
- 0.25 c (60 mL) olive oil, good
- 0.5 c (120 mL) Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly grated
- 1 c (240 mL) chicken stock, preferably homemade
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) minced garlic (3 cloves)
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) fresh sage leaves, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) fresh rosemary leaves, minced
- 2 tsps kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- Bean Preparation: Soak dried beans overnight in cold water, covering them by 2 inches. Refrigerate in a covered container to initiate softening.
- Bean Cooking: Drain and rinse soaked beans, transfer to a large stockpot. Cover with double the water volume, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 45 minutes, skimming foam periodically to ensure clean flavor and smooth texture.
- Vegetable Foundation: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté fennel and carrots until tender and lightly caramelized, developing rich, deep flavors. Add garlic and stir briefly to release aromatic essence without scorching.
- Flavor Integration: Combine cooked beans with sautéed vegetables, introducing chicken stock and herbs. Sprinkle sage, rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a harmonious flavor profile.
- Final Refinement: Simmer the mixture on low heat for 12-15 minutes, allowing liquids to reduce and ingredients to meld. Gently fold in Pecorino Romano cheese, creating a creamy, indulgent texture. Adjust seasonings to taste and serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Soak Strategically: Overnight bean soaking is crucial for even cooking and digestibility, reducing cooking time and softening tough fibers.
- Skimming Secrets: Regularly removing foam during bean boiling prevents bitter flavors and ensures a cleaner, smoother final texture.
- Herb Harmony: Fresh sage and rosemary are game-changers, infusing deep Mediterranean flavor that elevates the entire dish’s aromatic profile.
- Cheese Completion: Adding Pecorino Romano at the end brings a salty, tangy richness that transforms simple beans into a gourmet experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg