Fagioli alla Sammarinese

Introduction to Fagioli alla Sammarinese

Fagioli alla Sammarinese is a traditional dish hailing from the small republic of San Marino, nestled on the Italian peninsula. This hearty bean stew is beloved for its comforting flavor and nourishing qualities. San Marino, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes, offers unique culinary delights that reflect its Italian roots while showcasing its own unique twist. Fagioli alla Sammarinese combines cannellini beans, vegetables, and meat to create a dish filled with flavors and tradition.

Historical Background

The origins of Fagioli alla Sammarinese date back centuries, with beans being a staple in the Sammarinese diet due to their adaptability to the region's terrain and climate. The simplicity of the ingredients speaks to a time when cooking was about making the most of what was readily available. This dish has been passed down through generations, often prepared during the cooler months to provide a warm and satiating meal after a long day in the fields.

Ingredients

• Cannellini Beans - 2 cups, dried
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Pancetta - 150 grams, diced
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Carrot - 1 large, diced
• Celery - 2 stalks, diced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato Paste - 2 tablespoons
• White Wine - 1/2 cup
• Chicken Broth - 4 cups
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried
• Bay Leaf - 1 whole
• Parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste

Preparation

To prepare the Fagioli alla Sammarinese, begin by soaking the cannellini beans in cold water overnight. This helps to soften the beans and reduces cooking time. Once soaked, drain the beans and set them aside.

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until it starts to render its fat and crisps up. This provides a smoky flavor that will permeate through the entire dish. Remove the pancetta and set aside, reserving about one tablespoon of its rendered fat in the pot.

Add the onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they become soft and slightly golden. This process is known as "soffritto" in Italian cooking and serves as the flavor base in many traditional dishes.

Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute to release its aroma. Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.

Cooking Process

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another two minutes, allowing it to thicken and create a rich base for the stew. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Let the alcohol evaporate, leaving behind a depth of flavor that complements the dish.

Add the soaked cannellini beans, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and bursting with flavor from the aromatic broth. Check the seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoying Fagioli alla Sammarinese

The Fagioli alla Sammarinese is typically garnished with freshly chopped parsley after it has finished cooking. Its rich and savory profile pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or served over polenta for additional texture. This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Gather around the table with friends and family, and enjoy a bowl of this traditional bean stew. Don’t forget to set up a cooking timer to manage your cooking process effortlessly.