Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried borlotti beans
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– Salt and pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Soak the beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before using.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in olive oil until soft.
3. Add the beans, bay leaf, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are very tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf and purée the beans in a blender or food processor until smooth.
5. In a large skillet, toast the rice over medium-high heat for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly browned.
6. Add the puréed beans to the skillet with the rice. Stir to combine.
7. Add enough water to the skillet to cover the rice and beans by an inch or two. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and the mixture is thick and creamy.
9. Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
Variations:
– You can add other vegetables to the bean purée, such as chopped kale or spinach, or diced tomatoes.
– You can substitute other types of beans for the borlotti beans, such as cannellini or chickpeas.
– Some recipes call for adding sausage or bacon to the dish for extra flavor and richness.
– Traditionally, panissa is served as a side dish with meat or fish, but it can also be a main course on its own.
Panissa is a simple but delicious dish that highlights the natural flavors of beans and rice. It’s a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a filling and satisfying meal that won’t weigh them down. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your own favorite ingredients and seasonings. Give Realdo’s panissa a try and discover the comfort and warmth of this classic Italian dish.