Tuscan White Bean Soup
A pound of dried beans is the inexpensive foundation for this simple, hearty meal. Serve it with slices of whole-wheat bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
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1 pound dried cannellini or great northern beans
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 ½ cups diced onion
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1 cup diced carrots
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1 cup diced celery
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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4 cups water
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2 medium dried bay leaves
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1 Parmesan rind (optional; see Tip)
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6 cups chopped fresh kale
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1 (14.5 ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes with basil, garlic & oregano, drained
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2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
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3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
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1 teaspoon salt
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Ground pepper to taste
Description
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Pick over and sort beans, then rinse under cold water and transfer to a large bowl. Add 3 quarts cold water, cover, and soak at room temperature for 8 to 24 hours. (To quick-soak, see Tip.) Drain and rinse the beans.
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Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until starting to soften, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Stir in broth, water, the soaked beans, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind, if using. Increase heat to high, bring to a boil, and cook for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer until the beans are nearly tender, 45 to 50 minutes.
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Stir in kale, tomatoes, and rosemary. Partially cover and continue to cook until the beans are tender, 30 to 45 minutes more.
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Discard bay leaves and Parmesan rind, if using. Stir in vinegar and salt; season generously with pepper.