Three-Bean Soup

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Drain the white beans and combine with 7 cups water, the intact half of the onion, the 2 peeled garlic cloves and the bay leaf in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, skim off any foam that rises and reduce the heat. Cover and simmer 1 hour, until the beans are just tender. Add salt to taste and freshly ground pepper.

2. Step 2

   In a heavy soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion, carrot and celery. Cook, stirring, until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes, and add the garlic and the red bell pepper. Cook, stirring, until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the beans with their liquid and the bouquet garni, and bring back to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer 1 hour, until the beans and vegetables are tender and the broth is aromatic. Taste and adjust salt. Add freshly ground pepper.

3. Step 3

   Meanwhile, rinse out the saucepan you started the beans in, fill halfway with water and bring to a boil. Fill a bowl with ice water. When the water in the saucepan comes to a boil, add salt to taste and drop in the green beans. Boil 4 minutes, and then transfer the beans to the ice water without draining the pot, using a slotted spoon or strainer. Drain the beans and cut in 1-inch pieces. Bring the water in the saucepan back to a boil and shell and skin the favas.

4. Step 4

   Shortly before serving the soup, stir in the chopped parsley and mint, add the green beans and skinned favas and simmer for a few minutes. Serve, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.