Borlotti Bean Stew

This is a traditional Veneto (Venice region) recipe, and can be prepared as a vegetarian or non-vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

• 6 cans borlotti beans
• 1 small onion -diced
• 1 clove garlic - chopped
• 100g bacon or prosciutto (optional) - diced
• Parmesan cheese - shaved
• 1 tbsp mixed herbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 100-200g of mixed fresh leaves (lettuce, baby spinach, rocket, etc)

Method

1. Blend the cans of borlotti beans to a rough consistancy
2. Fry the onions and garlic ( and bacon if desired) in a pot until soft
3. Add the borlotti beans, mixed herbs to the pot and cook for about 10-15 mins on a low heat, stirring often, until cooked through.
4. If desired, add the diced prosciutto and stir through.
5. Ladle the stew into 4 large bowls.
6. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and mixed fresh leaves and serve

Serves 4