Zuppa di Castagne e Cavolo Nero
Cavolo nero is a member of the kale family. Between farm stands, specialty produce markets, and natural foods stores it is available year-round. To find it, be aware of its many aliases: Tuscan kale, black cabbage, lacinato, and dinosaur kale. Its rich, sweet, almost meaty flavor will have you hooked from the first bite.
·Soup can be made 3 days ahead and cooled completely, uncovered, then chilled, covered. Reheat, thinning with water as necessary.
·Beans can be soaked at room temperature up to 12 hours.
·To quick-soak beans: Cover beans with cold water by 2 inches in a 4- to 5-quart pot and bring to a boil, uncovered. Boil beans 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let stand, uncovered, 1 hour.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 6 first-course servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Soak beans in cold water to cover by 2 inches in a bowl at room temperature at least 8 hours, or quick-soak (see cooks' note, below). Drain well in a colander.
Step 2
Cook pancetta, onion, and garlic in oil in a wide 6- to 8-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 8 minutes. Add tomatoes with juice, beans, broth, water, cheese rind, salt, and pepper and simmer, uncovered, until beans are tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Discard cheese rind and stir in chestnuts.
Step 3
Transfer 2 cups soup to a blender and purée until smooth (use caution when blending hot liquids), then return to pot. Stir in kale and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until leaves are tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in thyme.
