Try this classic Tuscan bean soup recipe
Tuscan bean soup or zuppa toscana hails from Italy's Tuscany region, embodying its culinary heritage. This traditional soup is known for its wholesome simplicity, blending staple ingredients into a comforting dish cherished across generations. It epitomizes the rustic Italian cooking ethos with its rich flavors and textures. Now, let's prepare this timeless Tuscan delight for your table.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this authentic soup, you will need one cup dried cannellini beans (soaked overnight), two tablespoons olive oil, one large onion (chopped), two carrots (peeled and chopped), two stalks celery (chopped), four cloves garlic (minced), one teaspoon dried thyme, one teaspoon dried rosemary, four cups vegetable broth, two cups water, two cups fresh kale (chopped), and salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the beans
Begin by draining and rinsing the soaked cannellini beans. In a large pot, add the beans and cover them with water by two inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender about an hour. Once cooked, drain the beans and set them aside. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your soup.
Saute vegetables
Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Proceed to add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Saute these ingredients, stirring occasionally, until they have softened without browning, which should take about five minutes. This step is essential as it creates a robust flavor foundation for your Tuscan bean soup.
Simmer the soup
Into the pot with softened vegetables, stir in thyme, rosemary, and the tender beans. Pour the vegetable broth and water over these ingredients. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to suit your taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat for a simmer. Covering the pot and let it cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously.
Add greens and serve
After the soup has simmered for 30 minutes, it's time to stir in the kale. Mix in the greens and let them cook until wilted and tender, which should take about five minutes. Assess the flavor and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve this hearty Tuscan bean soup hot, accompanied by slices of crusty bread for a complete Italian experience at your table.
