Authentic Tuscan is a classic dish of the Tuscan countryside.
Tuscan food is often described as "cucina povera," or "simple cooking," because it is rustic, simple and earthy. Tuscan bean soup is a creamy, hearty dish that has been cooked for centuries in the Tuscan countryside.
Ingredients
Dried cannellini beans make the base of this soup. Some cooks will use a combination of cannellini and borlotti beans. Flavor is added with garlic, onions, pancetta, olive oil, celery, carrots, bay leaves, salt, fresh cracked pepper and fresh herbs.
Preparation
The deep, rich flavor and texture of authentic Tuscan bean soup develops throughout the slow cooking process. Dry beans are soaked overnight and then cooked with the pancetta, garlic, onion and bay leaves. The soup is made using the cooked beans and a variety of fresh vegetables, extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs.
Serving
Tuscan bean soup is traditionally served over a slice of crusty Italian bread in the bottom of a bowl. Some cooks will drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top of the soup and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tags: , extra virgin, extra virgin olive, fresh herbs, Tuscan bean