Tuscan-style beans

Tuscan-Style Beans: A Rustic Delight

Today, I invite you to explore a traditional recipe for Tuscan-style beans, which combines simplicity with the authentic taste of fresh ingredients. This dish is not just a recipe, but a story that comes from the heart of rustic cuisine, a recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. Beans are a versatile ingredient, rich in nutrients, that have been used for centuries in various cultures to nourish families. Here’s how you can prepare a delicious dish that can be served both hot and cold, alongside a slice of fresh bread.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g white beans (preferably Cannellini or others)
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 green garlic stalks
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs of sage
- 4-5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Beans:

1. Soaking the Beans: Start by washing the beans under a cold running water. Then, place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with cold water, letting them soak. Ideally, you should soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and achieve a creamier texture.

2. Boiling the Beans: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the beans again. Place them in a large pot, add fresh water so that it exceeds the beans by a few centimeters. Bring to a boil over medium heat and, when it starts to boil, skim the surface to remove impurities. It is recommended to change the water twice for cleaner beans.

3. Adding Aromatic Ingredients: After skimming the beans, add the sliced carrot, chopped garlic cloves, and herbs: rosemary and sage. All these will transform the dish into an explosion of flavors. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Cooking Over Moderate Heat: Cover the pot with a lid and let the beans simmer over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Check the water level periodically; there should be enough liquid remaining, about two fingers above the beans.

5. Preparing the Garlic Paste: While the beans are cooking, prepare the garlic paste. Chop the green garlic stalks and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle salt over them and use a mortar to crush them. Drizzle olive oil in a thin stream, mixing constantly until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste. This paste will add an intense flavor to your dish.

6. Finishing the Dish: When the beans are well cooked and the water has reduced, add the garlic paste and mix well. Adjust the salt and pepper again, then let it simmer for another 2-3 boils to blend the flavors.

7. Serving: Tuscan-style beans can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This dish pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade fresh bread that absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the Beans: Use high-quality, preferably organic beans. White beans are rich in protein and fiber, making them a healthy and nutritious option.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is completely vegetarian, but for extra flavor, you can add a few slices of smoked sausage or pancetta during cooking.
- Variations: If you like to experiment, you can add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, complex carbohydrates, and fiber, which help maintain digestive health. They are also rich in B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use canned beans?: While canned beans are a quick option, we recommend using dried beans for superior taste and texture.
- How can I store leftover beans?: Cooked beans store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put your cooking skills into action and enjoy a delicious portion of Tuscan-style beans. Whether you choose to serve it as a main dish or as a side, this dish will always bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your table. Enjoy your meal!