Ribollita
In leaner times, this hearty soup provided a delicious way for Tuscans to use their leftovers: Ribollita means "reboiled," and the soup was always eaten two days in a row. Plus, it was poured into the bowl over a slice of stale bread, which we recommend that you do, too. Begin making it two days ahead, and don't leave out the final drizzle of olive oil.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 10 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Place Great Northern beans in large saucepan. Add enough cold water to cover beans by 3 inches; let soak overnight. Drain. Return to saucepan. Add enough fresh cold water to cover beans by 3 inches. Simmer until beans are tender, about 1 hour. Drain. Puree 1 cup beans in processor. Set aside pureed beans and whole beans. Heat 4 tablespoons oil in heavy large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and parsley; sauté 3 minutes. Stir in tomato paste. Add remaining vegetables and pancetta; sauté 3 minutes. Add 10 cups chicken broth, pureed beans and whole beans. Cover; simmer until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally, about 1 1/2 hours. Season with salt and pepper. Cool slightly. Chill uncovered until cold. Cover; chill overnight.
Step 2
Bring soup to simmer. Remove pancetta. Ladle soup into bowls. Drizzle remaining oil over soup and serve.
