Lucanian cuisine is a celebration of simplicity and the goodness of local produce. Among its treasures, Lucanian cannellini beans stand out for their delicacy and velvety texture, perfect for dishes that warm the heart and soul. Today, we're taking you on a culinary journey that combines Tuscan tradition with Lucanian ingredients of excellence: Fagioli Cannellini all'Uccelletto .
An easy, nutritious, and flavorful recipe that celebrates the versatility of our legumes and the authenticity of our ingredients. Learn how to prepare this timeless classic, ideal for accompanying roasts or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
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250g of dried Lucanian Cannellini Beans (or 500g cooked)
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400 g of peeled tomatoes (or fresh cherry tomatoes)
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2 cloves of garlic
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A generous sprig of fresh sage leaves
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh or dried chili pepper (optional, for a spicy touch)
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Water or vegetable broth
Procedure
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Soaking and Cooking (if dried): If using dried cannellini beans, soak them in cold water for at least 8-12 hours. Then drain, rinse, and cook in plenty of unsalted water until tender (about 45-60 minutes, depending on the type). If using pre-cooked beans, rinse them well.
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Aromatic Sauté: In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of Lucanian extra virgin olive oil. Add the whole garlic cloves (or minced, if you prefer) and the fresh sage leaves. If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili pepper. Sauté gently until the garlic is golden and the sage is fragrant.
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Add the Tomatoes: Remove the garlic (if whole) and add the peeled tomatoes (mashing them lightly with a fork) or the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Bean Mix: Add the cannellini beans (already cooked and drained) to the tomato sauce. Mix well, season with salt and pepper. If the mixture is too dry, add a ladle of hot water or vegetable broth.
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Final Cooking: Let everything simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve the Lucanian Cannellini Beans all'Uccelletto piping hot, with another drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
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They're an ideal side dish for roast meats or sausages, but they're also delicious as a stand-alone dish, perhaps accompanied by a slice of toasted Altamura bread.