Easy Italian Recipes

 MAKES 2 1/2- cups (18-21 oz/560-655g)

- 1 cup (7 oz/220 g) dried beans
- Salt and freshly ground pepper

Pick over the beans and discard any misshapen beans or stones, then rinse the beans under cold running water and drain. Place in a large bowl with cold water to cover by about 3 inches (7.5 cm) and let soak for at least 4 hours or for up to overnight. Alternatively, transfer the rinsed beans to a large pot, add water to cover by 3 inches, bring to a boil, remove from the heat, and let stand for 1-2 hours.

Drain the beans, place in saucepan with water to cover by about 4 inches (10 cm), and bring to a boil over high heat, skimming off the foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer until the beans are tender, 1 ¹/2 - 2 ¹/2 hours. The timing will depend on the variety and age of the beans. Use immediately, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Buon appetito !