White Beans Recipe

1. Soak the Beans

Begin by placing the dried white beans in a large bowl or pot, covering them generously with cold water. Allow them to soak for 12 to 24 hours. This step is crucial as it softens the beans and reduces cooking time, making them tender and easier to digest.

2. Simmer the Beans

After soaking, drain and rinse the beans. Transfer them to a medium pot and cover with fresh water. Bring the water to a simmer, watching carefully for foam that may form on the surface. Skim this foam off as needed. This ensures a cleaner broth and improves the beans' texture.

3. Add Vegetables and Herbs

Once simmering, add the halved carrot, red onion, celery, garlic cloves, bay leaf, parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme into the pot with the beans. Allow them to cook for about 35 to 40 minutes. These aromatic vegetables and herbs will infuse the beans with a deep, rich flavor. You'll know the beans are done when they are tender to the bite.

4. Season the Beans

Just before the beans finish cooking, season them with Maldon or flaky sea salt to taste. This helps to enhance their natural flavor without overwhelming it.

5. Drain and Reserve

Once cooked, drain the beans using a colander and reserve the flavorful cooking liquid in a bowl for later use. This liquid can be used to adjust the texture of the final dish or for other culinary purposes.

6. Cool and Combine

Spread the cooked vegetables on a platter or baking sheet to cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, discard the herbs and combine the beans, vegetables, and garlic in a medium bowl. Add enough of the reserved cooking liquid to moisten the mixture, along with the olive oil. This step brings all the components together, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

7. Add Final Flavors

Sprinkle the chopped thyme over the beans, and season with additional salt and coarsely ground black pepper to your liking. Stir well, and if desired, add more cooking liquid for a looser consistency.

8. Serve

Your white beans are now ready to serve. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated and brought back to room temperature before serving, allowing the flavors to meld even further.