La Ribollita Tuscan Bean Soup Au Gratin

ItalianPorkIntermediate150 minBy Northstar

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • 0.8 cup olive oil, plus 2 tbsp
  • 2 tbsp chopped garlic
  • 2 cup minced onions
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 cup finely chopped leeks, white part only
  • 1 hot chili pepper, stemmed and minced
  • 2 medium ham hocks (3 to 4 oz each)
  • 1 lb dried white beans, soaked overnight and drained
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped rosemary
  • 10 cup chicken stock
  • 8 slice Italian bread, toasted
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onions, carrot, celery, and leeks for 5 minutes. Add chili pepper.

  2. 2

    Add ham hocks, white beans, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beans are very tender. Remove ham hocks, pull the meat, and return it to the soup. Discard bones and bay leaves.

  4. 4

    Crush some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the soup. Season with salt and pepper.

  5. 5

    In small ovenproof crocks, layer the soup with toasted Italian bread. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and top generously with Parmesan cheese.

  6. 6

    Broil until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Tags

soup